Ten B.C. Seniors Games zones will share in $265,950 of new Community Gaming Grant funding, announced Ida Chong, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, as she lit the torch to officially open the 2012 BC Seniors Games.

The funding, announced this evening, is in addition to the $175,000 the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development already provides in direct support for the Games. Zone funding pays for uniforms, registration fees, event qualifiers, and administrative costs.

Close to 3,700 participants will take part in the BC Seniors Games. They are joined by their families, supporters, coaches and officials.

The Games, marking their 25th anniversary, celebrate active and healthy seniors in British Columbia. Participants range in age from 55 to older than 90 and will compete in 26 events at various venues throughout Burnaby. One of the key goals of the Games is to demonstrate the abilities of seniors and to create an awareness of their contribution to the Canadian lifestyle.

This is Burnaby's first time hosting the Games, which are expected to generate a significant economic return of more than $2 million for the host city. In addition to athletes and coaches, the Games attract many visitors who stay for several days, benefitting local businesses.

Quotes:

Honourable Ida Chong, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development -

"The BC Seniors Games are an excellent investment, bringing enormous benefits to all involved. The competitors encourage and inspire others to adopt active lifestyles which contribute to good health. The host city benefits from an influx of visitors, and the Games leave a legacy of trained volunteers and community pride."

BC Seniors Games Society president June Parsons -

"It is with great pride that the BC Seniors Games celebrates its 25th year through the collaboration of the Executive Board, the approximately 600-plus zone volunteers and the 1,500-plus host community volunteers. The 3,700 participants will showcase to the community that age is not a deterrent to an active, healthy lifestyle."

Burnaby Mayor Derek Corrigan -

"Burnaby is thrilled to be the 2012 host of the BC Seniors Games - one of the largest Games organized in B.C. with approximately 3,700 participants. We welcome this opportunity to host seniors, volunteers and spectators from around the province as they come to Burnaby to enjoy the Games and our city's many attractions. It is the first time Burnaby has hosted the Games, and I know that our organizers and the many volunteers will ensure the BC Seniors Games in Burnaby are one of the best ever!"

Quick Facts:

• The BC Seniors Games will be held Aug. 21 to Aug. 25.
• Athletes compete from 12 geographic zones across B.C.
• As many as 1,500 volunteers will contribute to the Games.
• The first games were held in Vernon in 1988 with 650 participants.
• The City of Burnaby contributes cash and in-kind support.
• Corporate partners include Royal Canadian Legion BC/Yukon Command, Black Press, Revera Retirement, the Independent Times, TVW Magazine and the Salvation Army.

Learn More:

BC Seniors Games: http://www.bcseniorsgames.org/

City of Burnaby host website: http://www.2012bcseniorsgames.org/

Contact:

Jeff Rud
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 953-3677
250 208-4028 (cell)