Halifax Metro Centre Launches Good Sport Program

Visitors to the Halifax Metro Centre can now take a pledge to be a designated driver for the night.

Trade Centre Limited president and CEO Scott Ferguson announced today, June 21, the Halifax Metro Centre is launching the Budweiser Good Sport program. The program encourages designated drivers to sign a pledge while attending a Metro Centre event stating they will not drink alcohol during the event and will provide a safe drive home for their companions.

"The Halifax Metro Centre hosts thousands of patrons a year and we recognize the important role we play in ensuring visitors to our facility have a safe, enjoyable experience," said Mr. Ferguson. "As the operator of the Metro Centre, we are proud to partner on this valuable program that will positively impact our community."

The program is a partnership between Trade Centre Limited, Labatt and Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation. The Halifax Metro Centre is the second venue in North America, without a major professional sports team or franchise, to have a Good Sport Program.

"We all have a role to play in ensuring responsible choices are available when alcohol is being served," said Mayor Mike Savage. "I commend the Metro Centre and its partners in the Good Sport initiative for encouraging patrons to make the positive choice to be a designated driver."

Designated drivers who sign the Good Sport pledge will receive a free soft drink and will be entered into a draw to win Good Sport prizes.

"We know many people who attend events at the Halifax Metro Centre get there by driving," said Wade Keller, director of corporate affairs for Labatt in Atlantic Canada. "We are pleased to partner with TCL and NSLC to help ensure those people get home safely."

The Halifax Metro Centre is celebrating 35 years of attracting and hosting concerts, sporting and special events. Over the course of its history, it has drawn more than 15 million visitors and hosted over 5,000 events.

Trade Centre Limited is the provincial Crown corporation that manages the Halifax Metro Centre on behalf of Halifax Regional Municipality. Its other core business areas include World Trade and Convention Centre, Exhibition Park and Ticket Atlantic. Its mandate is to create economic and community benefits by bringing people together in Halifax and Nova Scotia. For more information, visit www.halifaxmetrocentre.com .