STAKEHOLDER SPOTLIGHT

This month Tourism Richmond spoke with Greg Huzar at the Richmond Olympic Oval to learn more about the Richmond Olympic Experience. From interactive exhibits and Olympic memorabilia to sport simulators and community programs, the museum showcases the Olympic spirit and Canada’s achievements on the world stage. 

1. Can you provide an overview of the Richmond Olympic Experience? 

The Richmond Olympic Experience opened in November 2015 as part of the legacy plan for the Richmond Olympic Oval following the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games. The museum celebrates Team Canada’s success on the international stage and promotes health and wellness within the local community. It is highly interactive, featuring Olympic torches, medals, and simulators that allow guests to try sports such as bobsleigh, Formula 1 racing, ski jumping, kayaking, and sit-skiing. 

2. What is it like working at the Richmond Olympic Experience? 

According to Greg Huzar, Manager of the Richmond Olympic Experience, working at the museum is dynamic, with something new happening every day at the Richmond Olympic Oval. The museum regularly welcomes school groups from Richmond and the Lower Mainland, providing an opportunity to instill health and wellness values in young visitors. It also attracts international travellers due to its proximity to Vancouver International Airport and frequently hosts athletes, as the Oval is an international competition venue. The global nature of the Olympics creates a space where people from diverse backgrounds and languages come together. 

3. What are some of the most popular exhibits and interactive experiences? 

The most popular attraction at Richmond Olympic Experience is the bobsleigh simulator, a custom-built experience that allows guests to travel down the actual Whistler Sliding Centre track from the 2010 Winter Games. Other simulators include: 

• Ski Jump 
• Formula 1 Race Car 
• Kayak 
• Sit-Ski (Paralympic Sport) 

The Richmond Olympic Experience promotes accessibility and inclusivity by highlighting Paralympic sports. Exhibits cover Olympic history from the first modern Games in 1896 to today. A collaboration with the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto showcases artifacts from Canada’s hockey legacy, including memorabilia from Sidney Crosby. 

The museum appeals to all ages, featuring: 

• Interactive activities for youth, including balance beam and Olympic crafts 
• Historical artifacts, allowing visitors to explore past Olympic Games 

4. How does the Richmond Olympic Experience remain engaging and relevant for visitors of all ages? 

The Richmond Olympic Experience continuously updates its content to reflect on the new Olympic and Paralympic Games. A recent highlight was a self-guided tour celebrating Canada’s connection to Paris 2024, featuring French-Canadian athletes. The museum also underwent renovations during the pandemic, improving visitor flow and expanding the Legacy Lounge, which now includes a cantilevered section over the ice surface, offering a full view of the facility.

5. What other activities can visitors do at the Richmond Olympic Oval? 

Visitors can upgrade their Richmond Olympic Experience ticket to a Richmond Olympic Oval drop-in pass, which provides access to: 

• Skating 
• Rock climbing 
• Basketball courts 
• A fitness centre 
• Group fitness classes 

This allows guests to learn about the Olympics and “train like an Olympian.” 

6. What are some impactful community programs or events at the Richmond Olympic Experience? 

• Richmond Olympic Experience First Thursdays: Free Museum admission on the first Thursday of every month from 2 PM–5 PM. 
• School District 38 Pro D Days: Up to three complimentary child tickets per adult ticket purchased. 
• Oval Community Day (August): An annual event inviting the Richmond community to explore the Oval and Richmond Olympic Experience. 
• Summer Reading Program: In partnership with Richmond Public Library, students who read eight books over the summer receive a free museum pass. 

7. What is the Legacy Lounge, and how does it connect with the Richmond Olympic Experience? 

The Legacy Lounge is the premier event space at the Richmond Olympic Oval. Originally the VIP seating area during the 2010 Winter Olympic Games—where the Prime Minister of Canada and the Emperor of Japan watched speed skating—it has since been transformed into a corporate event venue. The space features: 

• Floor-to-ceiling windows 
• A bar and catering services 
• Seating for up to 90 guests 

When combined with the Richmond Olympic Experience, the venue can accommodate up to 300 guests for events such as receptions and conferences. 

Please visit here for more information on event spaces.

8. Are there any upcoming special events or initiatives? 

The Richmond Olympic Experience is currently celebrating the 15th anniversary of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games with a photography exhibit. The museum will also participate in the Tourism Challenge in April and May, welcoming industry partners to experience the exhibits. 

9. What are the operating hours of the Richmond Olympic Experience? 

• Regular Hours: Thursday–Sunday, 10 AM–5 PM 
• Extended Hours: March Break, summer, and winter holidays: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 AM–5 PM 

Corporate & Private Events: Available any day of the week 

For more information, visit the Richmond Olympic Experience’s website.