It’s a clear case of build it and they will come.
During the official unveiling of the Greater Vernon Athletics Park Saturday, local officials and residents learned that Greater Vernon will host the 2017 55-Plus B.C. Games (formerly the B.C. Seniors Games).
“It’s exciting news,” said Eric Foster, Vernon-Monashee MLA, who made the announcement.
When the concept of an athletics park was put before residents in 2013, the Regional District of North Okanagan promoted the ability of the community being able to host large sports tournaments.
Earlier this year, the City of Vernon bid for the Games.
“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,” said Peter Fassbender, community development minister, in a release.
Beyond facilities in Greater Vernon, the Games will also be held at venues in Armstrong-Spallumcheen.
The 2015 55-Plus B.C. Games in North Vancouver drew 3,277 participants in 20 activities, and Foster is confident the 2017 competition will bolster the North Okanagan economy.
“It’s an event that will bring in a lot of people and they will stay in hotels and explore the community,” he said.
The B.C. Senior Games Society estimates an economic impact of about $2 million.
Foster believes Vernon’s chance of a successful bid would have been limited if it wasn’t for the new athletics park next to Okanagan College.
“It makes the community that more attractive for all kinds of events. We could hold world-class track in the community with this facility,” he said.
Also on Saturday, it was announced that the 55-Plus B.C. Games will be held in Cranbrook/Kimberley in 2018 and Kelowna in 2019.
“On behalf of our society and the 55-Plus B.C. Games, we would like to thank, and congratulate the three winning bid communities,” said Wayne Naka, B.C. Seniors Games Society president.
“We will make an immense and positive impact on your communities as we transform the image and attitudes towards the 55-plus population among residents of all ages in B.C.”
