August 22, 2013 - 11:56 AM
KAMLOOPS - The Kamloops economy is getting a shot in the arm this week as nearly four thousand B.C. seniors with their families and supporters
arrive for the BC Seniors Games.
Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Coralee Oakes lit the torch today in Kamloops, officially opening the Games. The government of British Columbia is contributing $175,000 for the sport and cultural event - an investment that typically results in over $2 million in economic impact for the host community.
The BC Seniors Games celebrate active and healthy seniors in British Columbia. Participants range in age from 55 to over 90 and take part in 24 events at the Games.
One of the key goals of the BC Seniors Games is to provide a platform for competition, demonstrating the abilities of seniors in the process.
Quick Facts:
* The BC Seniors Games run from Aug. 20, 2013 to Aug. 24, 2013.
* This year, the BC Seniors Games have approximately 3700 registered competitors.
* The Games will rely on the help of approximately 1200 volunteers, leaving a legacy of trained volunteers and community pride.
* An impact study of the 2009 BC Seniors Games in Richmond found that the event contributed $3 million to the provincial economy, $2.1 million of which was generated in the host community.
* Events range from established multi-sport events such as track and field, cycling and swimming to less traditional events such as horseshoes, darts and cribbage.
* The BC Seniors Games were established in 1987.
Learn More:
Kamloops 2013 BC Seniors Games: http://www.2013kamloopsbcseniorsgames.org/
BC Seniors Games Society: http://www.bcseniorsgames.org/bcsgs/
News from © iNFOnews, 2013