Athletes at Birchfield Harriers feel the impact towards the games will bring huge economic stimulation and long-term economic and social benefits to the West Midlands.
Birchfield Harrier, Kadar Omar from Birmingham spoke about how he views not only the economic growth, but how he passionately believes the city is capable of furthering itself into a potential host for the ‘Olympic Games.’
The Commonwealth Games is set to take place this summer from 28 July to 8 August at the historic Alexander Stadium in Perry Barr. At least 5,000 athletes from 72 Commonwealth countries are expected to take part, bringing the whole world together.
Kadar Omar, the winner of the Cardiff half-marathon 2022, said it will attract more of the local community and other cities to visit Birmingham as he said:
“It is welcoming, diverse, and for sure is capable of hosting international events.
“The Games will enhance Birmingham’s image by proving it can compete with big cities like London, Manchester or Sydney.
“We have amazing facilities to host the Games, amazing road systems, plenty of hotels and leisure centers to entertain our guests.”
In 2021, in a blog published by Dr Jing Du, it’s understood that a projected £750 million will be given to the economy and Birmingham City Council as they estimate a further 4,500 jobs to be created, supporting engineering and construction companies followed with tourism, transport and the sporting sector.
New report suggests Commonwealth consistently provides over £1 Billion boost for host cities
As an athlete himself Kadar was excited by this, he said:
“The world athletics facilities that are being built will inspire or motivate more young people to develop their talent and as well it will create jobs for local communities.”
As a former refugee who fled his own country at just 13 due to political situations, Kadar like many has found a home through sport.
The Games for the first time look to maximize its influence on addressing key socio-economic issues by including, equality, diversity, accessibility and human rights.
Kadar understands how crucial this will be as Birmingham is one of the most diverse cities in Europe.
He said: “This City has a lot of diverse people who come from various parts of the world.
“The visitors and natives will have the opportunity to try various culture foods and explore culture centers in the city.”
The Tokyo Olympics back in 2020 saw zero ticket revenue and no audience, reducing Japan’s income by 15 million.
Moving on two years and COVID-19 has seen a dramatic change, seeing restrictions on people’s movement banished.
In addition, this has allowed Birmingham to transform itself, seeing sponsorship and the investment of advertising increase, improving the revenue for a greater Games.
Josh Baker, Senior Investment Consultant at Seven Capital said:
“We’ve already seen what large-scale investments such as HS2 and the £8 billion Big City Plan have done to Birmingham, so the announcement of the Commonwealth Games is another added boost to the local economy.”
Kadar, alongside other impressive runners will be missing out on the Games, but Kadar thinks that’s no reason to not attend as he said:
“I will not participate in the games, but I am looking forward to welcoming world athletes and cheer some of our own club mates who will be competing, it will be an inspiration.”
For more upcoming information on the Commonwealth Games 2022 visit Home of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games
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