The province has announced host cities for future BC Winter and Summer Games and Quesnel was chosen to host the 2024 B.C. Winter Games.
The 2024 BC Summer Games will take place in Maple Ridge, and the 2026 BC Summer Games will take place in Kelowna.
“Congratulations to the host cities for the 2024 and 2026 BC Winter and Summer Games. This is a wonderful opportunity for these cities to showcase their 'A games' as a sports event-hosting destination and to support B.C.'s young athletes," said Melanie Mark, minister for tourism, arts, culture and sport in a news release.
"I know personally the power sport has had in my life, and I am proud to continue to shine a light on B.C.'s top athletic talent. Our government's continued support to the BC Games Society enables them to deliver these games and ensures our athletes can reach their dreams."
"These communities will ensure that British Columbia's best young developing athletes have exceptional sport experiences," said Alison Noble, president and CEO, BC Games Society.
"The 2024 and 2026 BC Games will bring new opportunities for sport and community development, but it is the collective hosting expertise, skills and qualities of community volunteers that will make each game a unique and memorable experience for participants. We look forward to working with the communities of Quesnel, Maple Ridge and Kelowna."
For some athletes, the games may be the highest competition they participate in whereas others may move on to the Canada Games or join national teams and go on to participate at international competitions, including the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
BC Games are held every two years in even-calendar years. The estimated economic benefit for host communities is $2 million for the summer games and $1.6 million for the winter games.
On average, the BC Winter Games feature 19 sports, 2,100 participants (1,500 athletes, 600 coaches, managers and officials) and 2,000 volunteers.
Whereas, on average the BC Summer Games feature 18 sports, 3,700 participants (2,800 athletes, 925 coaches, managers and officials) and 3,000 volunteers.
Prince George will host the next BC Summer Games from July 21-24 in 2022.
The 2024 BC Winter Games in Quesnel will take place from Feb. 22 to 25 and the 2024 BC Summer Games in Maple Ridge will take place July 23 to 26.
The 2026 BC Summer Games in Kelowna are set for July 23 to 26.
