The Kamloops economy is getting a shot in the arm this week as nearly four thousand B.C. seniors with their families and supporters arrive for the BC Seniors Games.

Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Coralee Oakes lit the torch today in Kamloops, officially opening the Games. The government of British Columbia is contributing $175,000 for the sport and cultural event - an investment that typically results in over $2 million in economic impact for the host community.

The BC Seniors Games celebrate active and healthy seniors in British Columbia. Participants range in age from 55 to over 90 and take part in 24 events at the Games.

One of the key goals of the BC Seniors Games is to provide a platform for competition, demonstrating the abilities of seniors in the process.

Quotes:

Coralee Oakes, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development -

"The BC Seniors Games are a joyous and inspiring celebration of good health throughout life. The participants in these Games show all British Columbians that fitness and active, healthy lifestyles can be maintained at any age. I congratulate all the participants, coaches and volunteers involved in these Games-they are great role models for us all."

June Parsons, BC Seniors Games Society president -

"Our Games have a large and dedicated following. Just to give you an idea, this year marks the 26th anniversary for the BC Seniors Games, and some of our participants have been competing every year since the beginning! The Games are about participation and showcasing active living, and we're proud that the BC Seniors Games continue to be extraordinarily successful. It's a testament to the healthy, active senior population we have here in B.C."

Peter Milobar, Kamloops mayor -

"You'd be hard-pressed to find a community more enthusiastic and more prepared to host the BC Seniors Games. These Games are an important tradition in British Columbia, and we are excited to become a part of it."

Quick Facts:

• The BC Seniors Games run from Aug. 20, 2013 to Aug. 24, 2013.
• This year, the BC Seniors Games have approximately 3700 registered competitors.
• The Games will rely on the help of approximately 1200 volunteers, leaving a legacy of trained volunteers and community pride.
• An impact study of the 2009 BC Seniors Games in Richmond found that the event contributed $3 million to the provincial economy, $2.1 million of which was generated in the host community.
• Events range from established multi-sport events such as track and field, cycling and swimming to less traditional events such as horseshoes, darts and cribbage.
• The BC Seniors Games were established in 1987.

Learn More:

Kamloops 2013 BC Seniors Games: http://www.2013kamloopsbcseniorsgames.org/

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

Contact:

Communications
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 387-4089