Thousands of people are making their way to the North Okanagan for sports and camaraderie.
Final registrations show that more than 3,600 people will attend the 55+ BC Games in Greater Vernon Sept. 12 to 16.
“We’re very excited about the number of people who will be attending the Games and know it is going to be a fantastic event,” said Wee Yee, Vernon & Area 2017 55+ BC Games president.
the Vernon & Area 2017 55+ BC Games Society today announced its participation numbers.
The Games include 27 sports and the largest participation rate will take place on the ice rinks with 453 hockey players, followed by dragon boat racing with 371 paddlers. Pickleball continued its steady growth in recent Games to a record setting 286 players, exceeding organizers’ estimate, with matches being played in four different venues. Equestrian, another record setting sport, will feature more than 100 participants.
Two new sports – squash and mountain biking – are being introduced at this year’s 55+ BC Games, and as such, reflect lower participation numbers, but will proceed.
Currently, 1,200 volunteers are required to execute the Games successfully.
“Specific volunteers are required more urgently such as hosts to provide general information and the go-to people at events, first aiders with current level one certification, drivers with a clean driver’s abstract as well as some drivers holding class four licenses, muscle and brawn for various set-up and tear-down, and photographers,” said Yee.
“Further training will be provided for those positions that require it.”
To date, just over 700 people have volunteered.
Those wishing to assist in the Games can go to www.55plusgames.ca/volunteers for more information.