Olympic Spirit Toronto Opens August 2004 - Toronto Home to $40 M Entertainment Complex

Toronto, Canada - June 3, 2004

TORONTO - June 3, 2004 - Olympic Spirit Toronto, the world’s only Olympic themed entertainment complex, will open its doors to Toronto’s public in August 2004. The $40 million, 52,000 square foot complex is dedicated to celebrating the Olympic spirit and is the first permanent Olympic Spirit Centre in the world. Fuelling economic momentum and revitalizing tourism, Olympic Spirit Toronto is touted as the city’s newest landmark.

Olympic Complex Drives Toronto Growth

Olympic Spirit Toronto is a premiere entertainment venue that provides a thrilling interactive experience, themed around the Olympics, by combining the fun of interactive games, with the hands on involvement of athletes. Located in the downtown core next to the Yonge-Dundas Square, the complex will be creating 155 jobs and is expected to drive more than 500,000 visitors in its first year.

As Toronto rebounds from 2003's tourism slowdown, Olympic Spirit Toronto anticipates drawing 250,000 tourists in the first year amounting to $3.3M in tourism revenue. The engaging and interactive complex will also be a major draw for corporate meetings and functions, accommodating up to 1,600 people. Several dates have already been booked on the 2004/2005 calendar.

“The complex really embodies the essence of our city,” noted Kyle Rae, City Councillor, Toronto. “All the elements Toronto is made up of including multiculturalism, camaraderie and enthusiasm for sports are evident in Olympic Spirit Toronto. This is a venue that will continue to drive tourists to Toronto this summer and for years to come.”

State-of-the-Art Design and Features

This awe-inspiring facility offers visitors five above-ground levels to explore. Furthering local involvement, Toronto-based design and production companies Bronskill & Co. and Mice Kadoke have been hired by Olympic Spirit Toronto for the creation of the interactives and simulators. The facility will feature a motivational 12-minute feature film, unique simulators, multimedia theatres, interactive kiosks, a 200-seat full service restaurant and a retail shop.

The first of its kind in the world to showcase the Olympic movement, the complex will not only entertain but also educate visitors who pass through its doors.

“We designed Olympic Spirit Toronto as an interactive, entertainment complex where people can celebrate the Olympics everyday,” said Peter Doyle, Chief Operating Officer, Olympic Spirit Toronto. “Where else can visitors run against Olympic athletes in a simulated race or feel the thrill of barreling through a bobsled run?”

Canadian Athletes Take on Integral Role

The athletes are the core aspect of Olympic Spirit Toronto, as the complex is a living legacy to Olympic athletes across the world. Athletes will be interacting with visitors, giving motivational presentations to corporate groups and play an integral role in the interactive displays.

Marnie McBean, Director of Athlete Programs at Olympic Spirit Toronto and three-time Olympic gold medallist notes: “Past, present and future Olympians are enthusiastic about taking an active role in the development and promotion of this Olympic complex. It’s like our Hockey Hall of Fame and we are excited to meet with Olympic fans to share our experiences of the Games with parents, teachers and kids alike.”

Sharing the Spirit with Everyone

Catering to all age groups, local residents and tourists, Olympic Spirit Toronto is an ideal half-day outing. Olympic Spirit Toronto’s opening will coincide with the Athens Olympic Games in August. A two-week Olympic festival called ‘Spirit in the Square’ will mark the opening. Economically priced, tickets are $55 for a family of four, $8.55 for students and $18 for single adult admission.

About Olympic Spirit Toronto:

Embodying the spirit, the fun, the sport and the international character of the Olympics, Olympic Spirit Toronto offers something for everyone under one roof in downtown Toronto. Olympic Spirit Toronto is a unique place where you can meet Olympians, learn, enjoy interactive games, view multimedia and static displays, dine and shop. It is a premiere event facility for corporate functions and community gatherings.

Olympic Spirit Toronto is managed by Toros Entertainment Inc. under official license by the International Spirit Development Organisation (ISDO), the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC). Olympic Spirit Toronto is the first in a series of permanent Olympic Spirit centers planned to open worldwide. For more information: http://www.OlympicSpirit.ca

Media Contacts: Naheed Ahmed - MAVERICK for Olympic Spirit Toronto - (416) 640-5525 ext 224 - naheeda@maverickpr.com

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