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TRAIL - The West Kootenay 2011 BC Seniors Games will open officially when Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Ida Chong lights the ceremonial torch in front of a gathering of athletes, community volunteers, municipal leaders, citizens and supporters.

Castlegar, Nelson and Trail are hosting this year's games Aug. 16-20, featuring 25 competitive sports and activities for healthy B.C. residents aged 55 and older. The games offer older British Columbians a chance to compete in sport. They inspire active lifestyles and provide opportunities to have fun and socialize with other participants, friends and families.

The host communities will realize a significant benefit from the games. Attracting about 3,100 participants, the event draws people from across B.C. for an extended stay in the region. As many as 1,500 local volunteers will lend their time and talent to the West Kootenay 2011 BC Seniors Games.

The Province supports the games and zone competition through $475,000 in funding.

Today's opening ceremonies start at 6 p.m. (PST) at Haley Park, 395 Schofield Highway, Warfield.

Quick Facts:

• Three Cities - One Goal. The host cities of Castlegar, Nelson and Trail are distinct historic and cultural communities with diverse economies and residents. They are united for the purpose of delivering a positive games experience for active and healthy B.C. seniors.
• An impact study of the 2009 BC Seniors Games in Richmond found that the event generated $2.1 million in economic activity in the host community and contributed $3 million to the provincial economy.

Learn More:

Check out the provincial government's role in supporting sport through the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development at: http://www.gov.bc.ca/cscd

For more information about the West Kootenay 2011 Seniors BC Games, visit: http://www.2011bcseniorsgames.org

Contacts:

Jeff Rud
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 953-3677

Bruce Gerrand
Media Liaison
West Kootenay Seniors Games
250 304-8946
250 365-2211

Jeannie Kim
Media Liaison
West Kootenay Seniors Games