2022 BC Winter Games cancelled in Vernon, hoping to host in the following year

Photo: Contributed

A tough announcement came from the BC Games Society and the Greater Vernon 2022 BC Winter Games Society on Friday, due to the ongoing pandemic and external factors such as wildfires and floods in many parts of BC this past year.

The organizations shared that they have made the difficult decision not to stage the BC Winter Games next month. The games had been stuck in holding pattern for the past month as the starting date neared.

Games organizers and stakeholders are looking into options to see if the region can deliver the multi-sport event in 2023.

“I recognize how devastating this news is for the athletes, coaches, volunteers, and host region of Greater Vernon who have been working tirelessly to prepare for these Games,” Melanie Mark, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport shared in a press release.

“These are not easy decisions to make. I sincerely hope that the dreams of these athletes to compete at this stage can be safely realized in the near future.”

“With so many challenges across the province this year, it has become clear that the 2022 BC Winter Games cannot happen this February,” Val Trevis, President, Greater Vernon 2022 BC Winter Games Society added.

“Our volunteer Board of Directors and Chairs have worked relentlessly to bring these Games to our community and we are very disappointed for the athletes and volunteers. We are committed to discussions to determine if there is a path forward to host these Games in the future.”

Jamey Paterson, Chair, BC Games Society Board of Directors stated the disappointment in not being able to have these Games in 2022.

“We are so grateful for the local organizers and volunteers who have devoted countless hours as they navigated a very difficult and constantly changing landscape over the past 18 months.”

The games were planned to kick off in Greater Vernon in February, expecting 1,800 athletes, coaches, and officials from communities across the province, with as many as 2,000 volunteers.

“It is very unfortunate for athletes, coaches, families, and spectators from across the province who will not have a BC Games experience this winter,” Alison Noble, President and CEO of the BC Games Society said. “We look forward to the possibility of delivering these Games in the future.”

The BC Games are held every two years.

Prince George is set to host the 2022 BC Summer Games and the 2024 BC Winter Games will be in Quesnel.

The societies noted that information about a future version of the 2022 BC Winter Games will be shared when available.