Greater Vernon is all geared up for the Games.
Literally.
Each of the City of Vernon’s council members are sporting their new B.C. Winter Games gear in anticipation of the Feb. 23 to 26 event.
More than 1,800 young athletes from across B.C. will converge on the region for the Games, ready to show off their talents and love of sport to town.
“It’s only a concentrated three or four days so people need to come out,” encourages Vernon Mayor Rob Sawatzky.
Catch figure skating at the Priest Valley Arena, speed skating in Armstrong, alpine and freestyle skiing at Silver Star or any one of the 15 sports set to fill local venues.
With everything from women’s hockey to netball and archery to gymnastics, there’s a sport for every interest.
“It’s a great way to break up the routine of a long, dark winter,” said Sawatzky, who is eager to see the excitement on the faces of competitors as they exercise great physical and mental health.
There is obviously a lot of pride among the athletes that have made it to the Games in their respective sport, but Greater Vernon is also beaming as it prepares to host the event.
More than 2,000 volunteers have been preparing for and will continue to work behind the scenes to ensure the event goes smoothly.
“The volunteer numbers have skyrocketed,” said Sawatzky. “Compared to other hosting places we’ve advanced and are better off in terms of volunteerism. That speaks well to the City of Vernon.”
For more information and a list of events visit www.2012bcwintergames.ca.
