Most BC Residents Glad to Host 2010 Olympics, But Don't Want Summer Games

Day 80 of the torch relay with torchbearer Conor Sandford in Medicine Hat. (Photo Credit: BC Govt Flickr)

A new poll has revealed some interesting insights into British Columbians' thoughts on hosting the Olympics.

The recently released Insights West poll asked B.C. residents to look back at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, with 69 per cent saying it was “definitely” or “probably” worth it to host the games. Just over one in four people (27 per cent), however, thought the experience wasn't worth it.

The percentage of people who thought the Olympics had a positive effect on the area was even higher. Of those polled, 80 per cent thought the 2010 Olympics had a positive effect on Vancouver. Those who thought the games had a positive effect on B.C. were at 78 per cent, while 75 per cent believed that Canada as a whole benefited.

(Photo Credit: Olympic Games)

The poll also allowed people to say their favourite memories. Three in ten said it was the feeling of pride and camaraderie, and 25 per cent remembered one or both of Team Canada's gold hockey medals. Other favourite memories included the opening and closing ceremonies, the torch relay, the weather, and some individual victories of Canadian athletes.

Though large majorities thought that the 2010 Olympics were beneficial, not as many were ready to jump right back into that experience. More than half of B.C. residents (53 per cent) thought that Vancouver should not launch a bid to host the Summer Olympics, compared to 37 per cent who would welcome a proposal.

Males were more likely to welcome the Summer Olympics at 39 per cent, as were those aged 35 to 54 (43 per cent) and those living in Metro Vancouver (42 per cent).

*Cover Photo Credit: BC Govt Flickr)