Swimming Canada is aware of the evolving circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and additional restrictions in provinces, including Ontario. The Olympic and Paralympic Swimming Trials, Presented by Bell, are scheduled to take place May 24-28 at the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre, as is a High Performance Test Event May 7-8.

The invitation-only events have been planned for months to be held safely in a Grey-Lockdown scenario. This includes a comprehensive safety plan, with strong protocols including limited participant numbers, separate entry-exit protocols, masks, distancing and cleaning to ensure a safe competitive environment in and around the pool.

“We have developed robust safety protocols to deliver an event that will allow us to safely choose the best teams to represent Canada at the Olympic and Paralympic Games,” said CEO Ahmed El-Awadi.

“We are aware of the recent media reports regarding the situation in Ontario and other provinces, and we recognize the uncertainty this creates for all the participants across Canada. We are receiving feedback and questions from people across our swimming and sport community. We understand the concerns and we are seeking more information to make the best decisions possible.”

Swimming Canada is in contact with its government and sport partners and will provide more information as details become available.

“As an athlete, I understand the preparation and focus that goes into an Olympic and Paralympic Trials,” said President Cheryl Gibson, a 1976 Olympic medallist. “As an organization, we have to ensure we can run an event that puts health and safety first. The board of Swimming Canada has challenged management to do this to the best of its ability. This past year has required us to be more adaptable than ever, and we will continue to adapt as additional information becomes available and as circumstances change.”