Cancellation of the 2020 55+ BC Games in Richmond due to COVID-19
For Immediate Release
March 25, 2020
The BC Seniors Games Society along with the Richmond Host Society of the 2020 55+ BC Games
have cancelled the 55+ BC Games that were to run September 15 to 19 at various venues throughout
Richmond.
In light of the current COVID-19 protocols put in place by BC Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie
Henry, cancelling the Games was determined to be the most responsible and precautionary measure.
This year’s Games was to be a celebration of over 3,500 participants competing in 28 sports.
Richmond volunteers had been hard at work planning everything from Opening and Closing
Ceremonies to special events and sport competitions for all participants. The 55+ BC Games were
previously held in Richmond in 2009 where they hosted over 3,800 participants.
The 55+ BC Games, presented annually in different host cities, are an opportunity to celebrate sport
and active living with other participants across the province. These Games are an important part of the
BC sport system and the largest annual multi-sport gathering event in the province.
Greater Victoria will host the 2021 55+ BC Games (September 14-18) while the 2022 55+ BC Games
will be held in Abbotsford (August 23-27).
Quotes:
Cindy Simpson, President, BC Seniors Games Society
“This was not an easy decision to make. There are hundreds of participants, supporters, officials and
volunteers needed to host these Games. We need to protect our community and our partners. It was
the most prudent decision to make at this time.”
Mayor Malcolm Brodie, City of Richmond
“While we are disappointed to not host the 55+ BC Games this year, it is of the utmost importance to
keep all participants, volunteers and spectators safe,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “We thank
everyone for their hard work in organizing this year’s Games and wish everyone success in 2021.
About The 55+ BC Games
The 55+ BC Games brings together British Columbians from across the province to compete in events
from mountain bike racing to cribbage and are held in BC communities each year. The Games leave
important legacies such as trained volunteers, tourism and economic development benefits ($3.3
million for 2017 Vernon and Area Games) for the Province of BC. The BC Government funds the BC
Seniors Games Society (which oversees the 55+ BC Games) to provide grants to host communities
who train key volunteers to host 3,500+ participants.
Contact:
Cindy Simpson
President
BC Seniors Games Society
president@55plusbcgames.org
C: 250-287-9827
Or
Maureen Barranoik
Event Manager
BC Seniors Games Society
Maureen@55plusbcgames.org
C: 250-488-7745
To view the full press release, please visit the 55+ Games website here.
