CANADIAN ENTRY QUOTA AT IMSSC ALL-ROUND GAMES

This year on February 22-24, the 22nd Masters International All-Round Games will be held at the Max Aicher Arena in Inzell Germany. Although 13 Canadians tried to enter the competition, only 7 will go. This is because Canadians shared a maximum allocation (quota) of 36 entries with 9 other nations on a first-come/first-served basis.

On-line registration opened on October 1, 2012; and by October 4, the quota was filled with only 3 Canadians managing to grab the available entries. By February 1, 2013 (only 3 weeks before the competition), 2 more Canadian entries were accepted but 8 other Canadians remained on the waiting list. One week later, the number of Canadians waiting was reduced to 5.

Organizers finalized the competition entries on February 14, inviting 4 more Canadians to participate and leaving 1 on the waiting list. Presumably having made other plans or unable to arrange affordable transportation so close to the event date; 5, of the 7 Canadians invited in the last 2 weeks of registration, declined.

This is clearly not working for Canadians; especially given that 8, of the first 36 entries, ultimately withdrew their applications.

Over the 22 year history of the Games, Canadians used to enjoy their own quota. In some years, this was shared with USA skaters. Canadian participation has varied but has generally been good considering the high cost of accommodation and travel to the various European competition venues - 13 in Alkmaar (2003), 10 in Inzell (2004), 9 in Baslega de Pine (2005), 12 and 9 in Erfurt (2008 and 2012). In 2007 and 2011, the Games were held in Calgary with 92 and 63 Canadians participating in those respective years.

In more recent time, Canadians have been relegated to share the "Other Nations" quota. Perhaps, this is due to our poor showing at several of the Games - only 3 in Helsinki (2006), 0 in Bjugn (2009) and 3 in Baselga de Pine in 2010.

Brett Arnason, our Canadian representative, will attempt to make a case for restoring a Canadian quota at the 36th Session of the IMSSC in Amsterdam on May 25, 2013. To assist with this request; Canadians, who wish to attend the 23rd Games in Stavanger NOR in 2014, should let Brett know by April 15, 2013. It would be very awkward if we fight for our own quota and then don't fill it - so, please, only express your your intent if you are serious about going.

Brett can be reached by e-mail at brett@arnasons.ca
 

Thanks ... and may the wind be always at your back.