The 33rd International Canoe Federation Flatwater Racing World Championships will be held in the United States for the first time.

Even more importantly, the event will be held in our own backyard at Lake Lanier!

This event is significant because it will serve as the international qualifier for the 2004 Olympic games. Although this is its first time hosting this event, Lake Lanier is no stranger to Olympic activity. In 1996, Lake Lanier hosted the Canoe/Kayak competition for the Atlanta Summer Olympics. Afterwards, a new world-class canoe and kayak venue was born.

As the energy provider for the facility on Lake Lanier, Jackson EMC is proud to support the world championships because it's an opportunity for our communities to host some of the greatest athletes in the world.

Donna Stephens, sponsorship director at the Lake Lanier Olympic Center, says some exciting plans are underway for the event. "Downtown Gainesville will be transformed into the Athlete Village. We encourage people to visit the square in the evenings to take in the display booths and entertainment."

In addition to the world championships, the Olympic Center will also be used for competition and recreational events. "Canoe and Kayak and rowing clubs give kids the opportunities to learn about and compete at the Olympic level. By 2008 and 2012, some of our local kids may make future Olympic teams with a facility and coaching staff of this caliber," says Stephens.

The Athletic Village and Venue will open September 1, 2003. Races will be held Thursday, September 11 through Sunday, September 14. Be on the lookout for entertainment information and discount opportunities in the August issue of Jemco News.

There are several opportunities for you to be a part of this history-making event. Sponsorship and vendor booth opportunities are available. Contact Donna Stephens at 770/965-1901 for sponsorship opportunities or Cheryl Hinderscheid at 770/532-3562 for information on vendor booths.

The Championship games will also use Homestay Programs for developing countries with fewer funds to support their athletes. The Gainesville Rotary Club and First Baptist Church will house small groups of people in their homes. If you'd like more information about serving as a host family, please contact Valerie Cash at 770-287-7888.