"I'm very pleased that ESPN has chosen Madison — with its unique mix of natural and urban beauty — as its venue for the 2004 Great Outdoor Games. For a city that is home to thousands of outdoor enthusiasts, this is a great fit. We're excited to be an active partner in this event that is growing in national popularity."

— Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz

"We welcome this opportunity to add ESPN's Great Outdoor Games to Wisconsin's list of great outdoor sports celebrations. Hosting the country's premiere outdoor sports competition here in our capital city is certainly a feather in the cap for Wisconsin and our thriving travel and hospitality industry.

— Jim Holperin, Secretary,
Wisconsin Department of Tourism

"The ESPN Great Outdoor Games will have a multi-million dollar impact on our community. In addition to the positive economic value of hosting this event, the exposure received via these Games helps the Convention and Visitors Bureau as we work to have Madison become known as a national sports event destination. We want to thank all of the partners in this extensive collaboration for making this opportunity possible."

— Deb Archer, President and CEO,
Greater Madison Convention & Visitors Bureau

"Having the Great Outdoor Games here in Madison and Dane County already feels like they've come home. Wisconsin is the Great Outdoors to so many visitors and those of us lucky enough to live here. Our beautiful, county-owned Alliant Energy Center grounds, with the lakes and our gleaming State Capitol in clear view, will be a perfect setting. As an angler and hunter, I can't wait to welcome the competitors and spectators."

— Kathleen Falk, Executive,
Dane County