Former Olympic rower honoured with the Key to St. Catharines

St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik presented the Key to the City to Doug Hamilton, Chair of the 2022 Niagara Canada Summer Games yesterday (August 12).

The presentation was made prior to the 13 for 13 Cultural Festival hosted by the St. Catharines, which was partnered up with Yukon.

“The Key to the City of St. Catharines is bestowed upon those whose significant contributions have reflected positively on our community. Doug Hamilton has been a key catalyst for the Canada Summer Games, playing an integral role in every facet of this transformative event,’ said Mayor Sendzik.

“We honour Doug’s contributions to the Niagara 2022 Canada Summer Games, and its legacy that will benefit our community for many generations.”

Hamilton made his name on the sports scene as a rower but has since made a major impact by dipping his oars into the St. Catharines community. His illustrious rowing career was highlighted by winning Olympic bronze for Canada in 1984, and a World Championship in 1985.

His passion for sport continued as a volunteer with Rowing Canada, Canadian Olympic Association and Toronto 2015 Pan AM Games – which held its rowing competition in St. Catharines.

Hamilton has had a leadership role in the Canada Summer Games for more than five years, dating back to his work as chair of the Niagara bid committee, later becoming chair of the Niagara 2022 board of directors.

The Canada Summer Games, currently take place across the region through to August 21, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that is bringing Canadians from all parts of the country together for a national celebration in Niagara.

Hamilton and the Niagara 2022 team have put in countless hours to not only welcome the nation to the region, but also create a lasting legacy for the community.

“Legacy projects like the Walker Sports and Abilities Centre at Canada Games Park and the Neil Campbell Rowing Centre on Henley Island are a testament to Doug’s leadership abilities and vision,” said Sendzik.

“In addition to these projects he has also ensured these Games are the most inclusive, with a special connection to our Indigenous communities. This will set a high standard for the games moving forward.”

Hamilton joins a prestigious list of recipients of the Key to the City, including Kristen Kit, Tim Hicks, Dr. Dan Patterson, Norm Foster, Edward Burtynsky, Dr. Jack Lightstone, Tom Rankin, Robert Cooper, Fergie Jenkins, Mary Ann Edwards and Dr. Rosemary Hale.