HI SCR147

Hawaii Tourism Authority requested to send a letter to the United States Olympic Committee, International Olympic Committee, and Tokyo Organizing Committee promoting Hawaii as an ideal training location for athletes competing in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics.

Resolution cites Hawaii's geographic position between Asia and North America, accessibility for athletes with disabilities, existing sports facilities, and the Aloha spirit as advantages for hosting Olympic training.

Highlights five new Olympic sports added for 2020—baseball and softball, sports climbing, karate, skateboarding, and surfing—for which Hawaii has appropriate training facilities.

Notes sports tourism in Hawaii generated approximately $144,000,000 in revenue in 2016 and references Hawaii's history hosting major sporting events including the Pro Bowl, IRONMAN World Championship, and various surfing competitions.

Certified copies of the resolution to be transmitted to U.S. Congressional leadership, Hawaii state officials, Olympic committees, and tourism industry organizations.