Show Producers Forced to Cancel Georgian Boat and Sportsmen’s Show

July 28, 2010 – Barrie, Ontario Show producers have been forced to cancel plans to hold a boat and sportsmen’s show later this summer in the parking lot of Georgian Downs racetrack.   Plans for the show have been in the works since early this year but poor attendance at several other shows in this region are putting a damper on enthusiasm.

“We are extremely disappointed but completely understand the position of the vendors,” says show producer Sherine Mansour.  “They are suffering from show-fatigue, a challenging economy and poor turnout at several other similar style consumer shows in our region over the past three months.”

Rather than put on a sub-standard show, Mansour says it was important to respect the opinions of the exhibitors who normally take part.  “This show is really for them,” said Mansour.  For those who have been on board from the beginning, full refunds will be issued immediately.

“It’s unfortunate because there has been tremendous local support from our partners, sponsors, the media and area residents who welcomed the idea with open arms.  But without enough vendors participating, we were concerned we would disappoint show visitors.”

Plans for the show included visits by honoured guests Walter Gretzky and Rick Vaive.  The Metal Mulisha, a motorcycle freestyle demo show had been scheduled to perform three times daily on the Saturday and Sunday.

Similar cancellations have happened to other shows including the Toronto in-water boat show held each year at Ontario Place.

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