Richmond has been awarded the 55+ B.C. Games in 2020.
The 55+ BC Games is an annual, multi-sport competition celebrating active and healthy seniors.
With five days of competition and cultural events, the event will attract more than 3,000 athletes who will participate in over 23 sports. They will travel from across the province to experience the competition and camaraderie of the annual Games.
“I am very happy to offer our congratulations on behalf our board and members to the City of Richmond for securing the bid to host the 2020 BC 55+ Games in Zone 4 Lower Mainland,” said Cindy Simpson, president of the B.C. Senior Games Society. “As our Games are returning to Zone, 4 that has a history a strong contingent attending games, we will be anticipating strong participant numbers in the events and sports that will be run! Wishing you every success in hosting these Games!”
Richmond will celebrate in Roaring 20s style with a memorable Games featuring superb sports facilities in a supportive, diverse community and exciting urban environment.
The 2020 Games will be a compact event with all venues within 10 kilometres of the Games Village in historic Minoru Park and will feature iconic venues such as the new Minoru Centre for Active Living and the Richmond Olympic Oval.
“Richmond is very excited to be welcoming the 55+ BC Games in 2020. This event will further build on our impressive community legacy for sport hosting including the highly successful 2009 BC Seniors Games, being a Venue City for the 2010 Olympic Games and hosting the upcoming 2020 CARHA Hockey World Cup, known as the Olympics of adult recreational hockey.
“With outstanding sports facilities, experienced and enthusiastic community partners and volunteers and a broad selection of hotels, dining and attractions we will deliver an unforgettable experience for all the participants.”
In 2017, an Economic Impact study found that the 55+ BC Games provide an impact of over $3.3 million to the host community. In addition, Host communities will benefit from the development of capacity to host large multisport events through training volunteers and improved infrastructure through the Games Legacy program.
This year's Games recently wrapped up in Kimberley and Cranbrook. The 2019 Games will take place in Kelowna.
