Trevor Crawley
Cranbrook and Kimberley has been chosen to host the 2018 55+ BC Games, which was announced by the province over the weekend.
Consisting of six submissions from communities across the province, each city was successful in their bids following a process conducted by the BC Senior Games Society that determined the winners.
"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," said Peter Fassbender, the Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development.
Coquitlam is hosting the 2016 event, while Vernon will hold the honour the year after. Kelowna will round out the decade and host the 2019 Games.
The event in Vernon — supported by the Greater Vernon area, city of Armstrong and the township of Spillimacheen — will be the 30th anniversary of the B.C. Games, as they were the original hosts back in 1988.
Formerly the B.C. Senior Games, the first-ever event featured 650 participants, which has ballooned to over 3,277 participants who competed in more than 20 sports and activities at the 2015 edition in North Vancouver at the end of August.
"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."
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.
The mission of the BC Seniors Games Society is to improve the health, lifestyle and image of British Columbia's 55+ populations.