In 2018, Cranbrook and Kimberley will be seeing a burst in senior athletes in the community.
The BC Seniors Games Society approved both Cranbrook and the Bavarian City’s bid to host the 55+ BC Games.
The games are expected to have a local economic impact of more than $2 million from the thousands of participants coming to take part in the more than 20 sports and activities.
The Province also announced that Vernon will host the 2017 Games, supported by Greater Vernon and the City of Armstrong and the township of Spallumcheen, while Kelowna will round out the decade in 2019.
These cities were successful in their bids following a process conducted by the BC Senior Games Society that determined the winners from a total of six submissions.
“On behalf of our Society and the 55+ BC Games, we would like to thank, and congratulate the three winning bid communities.” said Wayne Naka, president of BC Seniors Games Society. “Our members will be extremely excited about the opportunity to travel, stay, and compete in these three geographical areas of our amazing province.
“We will make an immense and positive impact on your communities as we transform the image and attitudes towards the 55+ population among residents of all ages in British Columbia.”
Vernon will host the 30th Games - formerly known as the BC Senior Games - and they were also the hosts during the inaugural gathering in 1988. The most recent 55+ BC Games successfully wrapped up in North Vancouver last month.
“Congratulations to all of the host communities on their successful bids,” said Peter Fassbender, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development. “Hosting events such as the 55+ BC Games brings incredible benefits to our communities on many levels - economically, culturally and socially.
“It is only fitting that Vernon has been selected as the host of the 30th Games as they hosted the very first one nearly three decades ago.”
Greater Trail was part of the West Kootenay contingent, along with Castlegar and Nelson, that hosted the Games in 2011.
Quick Facts:
* The first Games were held in Vernon in 1988 with 650 participants.
* This year, the 55+ BC Games attracted 3,277 participants who competed in more than 20 sports and activities.
* Participants range in age from 55 to 90+.
* Participants compete from 12 zones throughout B.C.