With six months to go before the 2007 Canada Winter Games in Whitehorse, organizers say they are pleased with their financial situation.

Host society president Piers McDonald told Whitehorse City Council Tuesday that sponsorship for the Games, which will be held Feb. 23 to March 10, is a great success story.

"We have, at this point, received about $6.35 million towards our target of $7.6 million," said McDonald. "Corporate Canada has stepped up to the plate, as have contributors from Whitehorse and the Yukon." 

The operating budget for the games is $21 million with a capital budget of $6 million.

This does not include the $30-million multiplex centre, where many of the events will take place, or the $20-million athletes' village, which will house the participants.

Volunteers and accommodation still needed

As for volunteers, McDonald said about 1,700 people have signed up so far but more than 5,000 volunteers are needed. Another recruitment drive will be held this month.

More places for people to stay are also required, he said. Whitehorse residents are being encouraged to rent spare rooms or even their entire home during the two-week period.

"There always has been a sense that hotel space will be at a premium and we've tried to do our best to make sure it's available to us but also that there are reasonable prices for the Games," McDonald said. 

The Games society also hopes the two air carriers serving the territory — Air North and Air Canada — will offer more flights this winter to accommodate the influx of visitors.

McDonald says the launch of ticket sales is planned for October.

About 3,500 athletes are expected to participate in the Games.