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Cranbrook/Kimberley games bid a success
A joint bid by the cities of Cranbrook and Kimberley to host the 55+ BC Games is one of three approved by the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development and BC Senior Games Society today.
Cranbrook and Kimberley will host the 55+ BC Games in 2018.
The province Sept. 26 announced the three communities chosen to host the 55+ BC Games in 2017 through to 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.
The City of Vernon will host the 2017 Games, supported by Greater Vernon and the City of Armstrong and the township of Spallumcheen.
And the City of Kelowna will round out the decade in 2019.
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.
Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
The most recent 55+ BC Games successfully wrapped up in North Vancouver last month.
The BC Senior Games Society anticipates each of these communities will benefit from a local economic impact of more than $2 million from the thousands of participants expected to take part in the Games.
“Congratulations to all of the host communities on their successful bids. Hosting events such as the 55+ BC Games brings incredible benefits to our communities on many levels – economically, culturally and socially,” stated Peter Fassbender, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development.
“On behalf of our Society and the 55+ BC Games, we would like to thank, and congratulate the three winning bid communities. 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,” said Wayne Naka, president of BC Seniors Games Society.
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+.
The BC Seniors Games Society receives funding from the Ministry of Community Sport and Cultural Development. A portion of that funding is forwarded to the Host Society for operation of the Games.
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