Many of the province's top young athletes will be competing in London in 2018.
The city has been named host of the 2018 Ontario Summer Games, which are slated to take place August 3 to 5.
Tourism London announced Thursday that its bid for the games was successful.
"The Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sport has been making us sweat a little bit. We knew we were in tough competition and we are just so thrilled to have been awarded these games," says Cheryl Finn, director of sport tourism with Tourism London.
London is no stranger to the summer sporting event, having previously hosted them in 2004, 1996, and 1975.
The games will bring roughly 3,500 competitors to London with 22-27 different sports planned at a wide range of venues.
"Most of the events will happen on the campus of Western University and events will also be spread out throughout the city from Stronach Fields to some of our outreach areas, Fanshawe Lake for some of the rowing events," says Finn. "It will be a great way to engage all corners of our city for the events."
A $1-million grant from the province will cover the bulk of the costs associated with the games. According to Finn, hosting the province's largest multi-sport event will provide a $6-million economic boost to the city.
"It will be significant for our hotel partners as well all of our tourism partners throughout the city because as families come we are hoping they decide to turn it into a bit of a family summer holiday," says Finn. "They will take in the events by cheering on their respective athletes and also take the opportunity to explore the city."
London police Detective Superintendent Bill Merrylees has been named chair of the London Host Organizing Committee. Merrylees serves as President and CEO of the Can-Am Police-Fire Games Federation, and Vice President of the International Police Sport Union.
"The City of London has a proven track record of organizing multi-sport events that are athlete focused to ensure the best possible experience. We have great venues and our volunteers will make the athletes and their families feel welcomed," says Merrylees.
The games feature athletes ranging in age from 12 to 18, and provide them with an opportunity to prepare them for national and international spots competitions.
The 2016 Ontario Summer Games open Thursday night in Mississauga.
