Crowds flood the Vernon Recreation Complex as registration for the 55+ B.C. Games is underway Tuesday afternoon. (Parker Crook/Morning Star)

Crowds flood the Vernon Recreation Complex as registration for the 55+ B.C. Games is underway Tuesday afternoon. (Parker Crook/Morning Star)

Getting in the Game

Preparation underway as 55+ Games kick off Wednesday

Sorting through boxes of registration cards, lanyards, T-shirts, brochures and more for nearly 3,700 athletes was a sport of its own Tuesday.

Prior to the 55+ B.C. Games getting underway Wednesday, a flurry of volunteers have been busy behind the scenes getting things organized.

“It’s my first time ever volunteering at anything like this,” said Betty Beck, volunteer management for registration and results.

While the actual Games run over four days (Wednesday to Saturday), Beck’s been working tirelessly for much longer.

“I’ve been at this since the beginning of July organizing volunteers.”

And in true Vernon fashion, the volunteer spirit has shone brightly with close to 1,300 volunteers (above the requested 1,200).

People like Edward Koshowski have stepped up to lend a hand where ever they can.

“The Games are here and it’s an opportunity to get involved,” said Koshowski, who will play host at Kal Tire Place during some of the ice events. “I still play hockey and a few of my friends that I play with are in the Games.”

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Opening ceremonies for the Games get underway tonight at Kal Tire Place at 7. Various sports take place in Greater Vernon and Armstrong today through Saturday (a full schedule is available at 55plusgames.ca).

“It’s all free, just come and cheer everybody on,” said Diana Williamson, one of the 12 Games directors.

Vernon Morning Star