BC's biggest games ever

Photo: Contributed

Kelowna is set to host the largest 55+ BC Games ever in the province.

Well over 4,100 athletes have already registered to take part in 31 sports and activities over four days from Sept. 10 to 14.

Registration closes tonight at midnight, and, with a number of teams still expected to sign up, society president David Graham says the final number could come close to 4,500.

"It wasn't really a goal," said Graham Monday. "It's been kind of an expectation, with Kelowna's capacity to host and Kelowna as a location, we expected it to be well received, and it really has been well received."

More than 900 of those participants are from the Okanagan Zone.

Dragon Boat racing and men's and women's hockey will have the most participants, with more than 400 athletes. More than 300 will compete in pickleball.

Graham says he has also been pleased with the reception from the community, as organizers are closing in on their target of 1,500 volunteers.

Events surrounding the games will take place in four hubs around the city, including the city's three major recreation parks in Rutland, the Mission and Parkinson Rec Centre.

"Downtown is also a hub, not only for some of the sporting events like dragon boat racing on Okanagan Lake and curling at the curling club, but some of our other major events like the opening ceremonies at Prospera Place and cultural events at the Rotary Centre for the Arts."

Along with sports such as hockey, golf and curling, there are also a number of more recreational activities included in the games such as bridge, whist, darts and bowling.

Graham says the games could have an economic impact of up to $3 million.

The opening ceremonies are set for Tuesday, Sept. 10.

Click here to register, or sign up to volunteer.