TORONTO 2015 PAN/PARAPAN AMERICAN GAMES NAMES BOB O'DOHERTY HEAD OF SPORTS
AND VENUES

Former Winnipeg Blue Bomber will draw on more than 40 years of multi-sport experience - most recently at the 2009 IIHF World Junior Championship

TORONTO, Sept. 23 /CNW/ - Ian Troop, CEO of Toronto 2015 today appointed Bob O'Doherty as Senior Vice-President, Sports and Venues for the Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games.

O'Doherty is best known for his most recent achievement as General Manager of the internationally acclaimed 2009 IIHF World Junior Championship in Ottawa.

"With the eyes of the hockey world upon him, O'Doherty more than rose to the occasion by organizing a superlative, international event and we are thrilled he is bringing his expertise to our team," said Troop.  

O'Doherty will oversee all aspects of sport competition and preparation of venues to facilitate optimal performance by the athletes participating at the Toronto 2015 games.

During his 40-year career in sport, this St. Catharine's native has been involved in a wide-range of major sport activities and initiatives.  In addition to the IIHF World Juniors, he has also served as General Manager of the 2006 multi-sport Ontario Summer Games, Canadian Special Olympics 2000 Winter Games, as well as Director General for both the Canadian Paralympic Committee and Volleyball Canada. O'Doherty, a member of the Queen's University Football Hall Fame, was also a member of the Canadian Football League's Winnipeg Blue Bombers from 1979-1982.

"Bob O'Doherty's renowned qualifications include a sincere passion for athletics and experience at all levels of sport in Canada," said Troop. "His track record of integrity and extensive relationships in the sporting community will be an invaluable addition to our team."

As Senior Vice-President, Sports and Venues, O'Doherty will also create a model for the delivery of anti-doping services, monitor levels of officiating, and assist with the planning, development and upgrades for all new and existing facilities. The Toronto 2015 sport venue plan encompasses more than 50 different facilities, with a total budget legacy of $700 million for sport venue construction and renovation.

"Toronto 2015 is a signature moment for Canadian sport," said O'Doherty. "I am looking forward to ensure the best possible experience for athletes and spectators involved in the games, and to contributing to grassroots sport - an area to which I have dedicated my professional life."

About the Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games

The Pan American Games is one of the world's largest international multi-sport events, held every four years for athletes of the 42 member nations of the Pan American Sport Organization (PASO). The Games comprise a mix of Summer Olympic Games sports, as well as traditional Pan American sports. The Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games will draw 10,000 athletes and officials and feature 48 sports in 17 municipalities across the Greater Golden Horseshoe area. The Toronto 2015 Pan American Games will take place July 10-26 and the Parapan American Games August 7-14.

For further information:

Bob Stellick 416.603.9452 X 300 Cell: 416.347.3191

Elissa Freeman, Director of Communications Toronto 2015 Cell: 416.565.5605