Cool Runnings comes Home: WinSport’s first drive-in movie is a hit

A blast of cold couldn’t dampen the spirits of the Cool Runnings cast, at least once they could be coaxed through the exit doors at the airport, so a little (well, maybe a lot of) rain certainly couldn’t stop Calgarians from having a great time watching this iconic movie at WinSport's first-ever Drive-In Movie on Aug. 13.

Hundreds of guests rolled into the west overflow parking lot at Canada Olympic Park for a nostalgic evening, gathering to watch Disney's Cool Runnings on a giant outdoor screen. The family-friendly film, inspired by the story of the Jamaican bobsled team at the 1988 Winter Olympics and filmed right here at Canada Olympic Park, proved to be the perfect choice for WinSport’s inaugural drive-in experience.

The evening was about much more than just a movie. Guests arrived early to enjoy the Pre-Show Plaza, where community partners, including Alberta Bobsleigh, Ranchman’s, StorageVault, Deveraux, and Calgary ReggaeFest, helped create a festival atmosphere with games, activities, music and entertainment. From line dancing and lawn games to reggae-inspired tunes, there was something for everyone before the opening credits rolled.

As dusk settled over WinSport, vehicles filled the lot and headlights gave way to the glow of the jumbo-sized screen. While the weather wasn’t exactly tropical, moviegoers embraced the experience. Families, friends and date-night couples settled into their vehicles to enjoy one of the most beloved sports movies ever made.

There was an added sense of nostalgia for local audiences. Many of the scenes in Cool Runnings were filmed at Canada Olympic Park more than 30 years ago, creating a full-circle moment as the movie returned home to the place where so much of it was made.

Today's visitors can still see one of the original bobsleds from the movie on display outside the Day Lodge at WinSport, and a second replica one in front of the WinSport Event Centre, making the connection between the film and Calgary's Olympic legacy even more special.

The success of the evening reinforces what makes WinSport unique: creating memorable experiences that bring people together while celebrating the rich history of sport in Calgary. From the enthusiasm of arriving guests to the cheers and laughter heard from cracked windows of cars throughout the screening, it was clear that the community embraced this new summer tradition.

A huge thank you goes out to our Team Members, sponsors, community partners and guests who helped make the event possible. Most importantly, thank you to everyone who joined us despite the less-than-perfect weather. Like the determined underdogs in Cool Runnings, you proved that a little adversity only makes the experience more memorable.

Here's to the first of many Drive-In Movie nights at WinSport!