Olympic rings from 1960 Winter Games at Squaw Valley near Lake Tahoe.
Photo © Stan White
Several factors were cited in the article as positive points to the bid. Big alpine ski facilities already exist around Lake Tahoe, such as Squaw Valley and Heavenly. Between Reno / Tahoe, Sacramento, and the Bay Area, a large base of potential ticket buyers is within the four hour radius required by the Olympics. There is plenty of lodging and ample transportation in the form of rail, Reno / Tahoe International Airport, and a major highway at each end of Lake Tahoe.
One possible glitch is Chicago's bid for the 2016 Summer Games. Chicago is competing against Rio de Janiero, and should Chicago win, a successful 2018 Winter Games bid from Reno / Tahoe becomes highly unlikely. However, if Rio is chosen (announcement is to be made next October), Reno / Tahoe 2018 organizers say they will begin a concerted push to land the games.
What do you think? Should the Winter Olympics be wooed to Reno / Tahoe if possible? Do the potential benefits in terms of an economic boost and infrastructure improvements outweigh the inevitable hassle for those of us living here? Learn more by reading Talks heat up for 2018 Reno/Tahoe Olympics, then leave a comment and let us know what you think. You can also vote in the Forum poll and express your opinion about bringing the 2018 Winter Olympics to Reno / Tahoe.
Source: Sun News Service and the Sierra Sun Newspaper
Comments
I think they should definitely come here! That would be incredible! My son would be 13, and it would be an awesome opportunity for him!
Tahoe is ideal for the Olympics. Hassle, what hassle? There is nothing around Lake Tahoe except Reno and Carson City. It is readily accessible from Sacramento, Reno, and Carson City.
Only problem is, it’s not worth the investment from a bankrupt state of California. If a major financial investment from California is required, I vote no.
The Olympics should not be another money sink for the taxpayers — that is not worth it.
If organizers could stomach a scaled down Olympics with existing facilities, then it would be worthwhile.
If anyone can make a profit off a Winter Olympics, the Tahoe region can do it. Got for the bid and let’s make it happen. I would love to see a modern bobsled course in Tahoe for year round use!
I think you are right Steve, but it isn’t going to happen anytime soon. The Reno / Tahoe organizers have decided not to pursue the 2018 bid. I think it is coming down from the main Olympics organization and has something to do with a U.S. location not being eligible until a later date.