“As one of the original patrons of  Calgary Rotary Challenger Park (CRCP), I have experienced and been witness to the many changes the Park has gone through and continues to do so to meet funding demands, restraints, and the needs of the community at large.

Since the beginning, the CRCP has been a unique concept of athletic fields, a vast recreational area, a specialized playground, tennis and basketball courts, baseball and softball diamonds, dressing, locker and shower rooms, cricket pitch, a football and soccer field, track and field, visitor’s centre, picnic areas, and other amenities, all constructed to ensure that all citizens regardless of age or ability have equal access to education, recreation, sport and play.

But the Park is more than all of the physical aspects it provides, it is a model of community inclusiveness. From inception this Park has been built with the idea that it is inclusive so people with disabilities and the community at large can participate and experience recreation and sport and all it has to offer with friends, family and community members in a barrier-free environment.”   – Story by Cal Schuler:

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Calgary Rotary Challenger Park (“CRCP” or the “Park’) is a unique concept of multi-purpose area constructed on 23+ acres of land donated by the Calgary Airport Authority to ensure that all citizens have equal access to recreation, sport and play. The idea of CRCP was conceived in 1997/98 by the caring and community focused Rotary Clubs of Calgary/Airdrie, the City of Calgary and the Calgary Airport Authority.

From inception the Park was built with the idea that it is inclusive so people with disabilities and seniors can participate and experience recreation and sport and all it has to offer with friends, family and community members in a barrier free environment.  This is illustrated by a story of one of our longest standing park patron’s (see above).

The Park provides:  Accessible sport and recreational facilities for all and is recognized as the best barrier-free sport and recreational facility.

Calgary Rotary Challenger Park is a barrier free meeting and recreational facility that is accessible to all people regardless of their age or ability.  But it is more than that!

The Park is a model of community inclusiveness where persons with disabilities can play next to and with their able-bodied peers. We welcome individuals and organizations to run their programs at Calgary Rotary Challenger Park. Calgary Rotary Challenger Park is the result of a partnership of individuals and organizations representing more than 100,000 people in the community. Through this ongoing combined effort, the Park has become and will remain a thriving success for Calgary.

The Park:  Includes 2 ball diamonds, a football/soccer field, a 400m running track, a field events area, a barrier free playground, tennis and basketball courts.

Calgary Rotary Challenger Park – 2016 Results:

1. Facility Utilization – 95,680 visits to the park – up 10% (86, 725 in 2015; 75,039 in 2014)
2. Financial Sustainability – 11th consecutive year we achieved a surplus budget.
3. Community Involvement – Over 50 organizations continue to utilize the park for their programs, special events and leagues.

 

“The Everyone Can Play Fund” subsidy program launched in January 2007 is now providing even more support. This program is specifically designed for organizations that serve people with disabilities and/or those who are economically disadvantaged. We’re happy to offer support to your group’s rental and transportation costs. The Calgary Foundation, through its Community Grants Program, has provided financial support to assist with this component. For more information please call 403-250-2707.

 

The Park has hosted over 500,000 visits from over 80 different organizations over the last 10 years!