Maple Ridge will host more than 3,000 athletes, coaches, and sports officials for the 2024 BC Summer Games next month.
The annual showcase of the top amateur sports talent from across B.C. will take place from July 17 to 21. There will be 30 sports competitions scheduled across 19 venues in Maple Ridge and surrounding communities, and more volunteers are being recruited to make sure it runs smoothly.
“This is our time to shine as we host young athletes from around B.C.,” said Maple Ridge Mayor Dan Ruimy, “Our city will deliver a first-rate athletic competition, leaving the competitors and sports officials with memories of our unparalleled natural beauty and the incredible hospitality of our local volunteers.”
Athletes will arrive on July 17, and the competitions will begin on Thursday, July 18, running through Sunday, July 21. Opening ceremonies will be held on Thursday evening at the Albion Sports Complex, and the Games will end on Sunday evening with a volunteer recognition event.
The official BC Games torch will be available for photo opportunities at city hall from June 10 to 21, then be moved to the lobby of the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre until July 14.
“Take a selfie with the torch and share it with the hashtag #BCSummerGames to help us build excitement and spread the word about the upcoming Games,” added Ruimy.
The Games will have the biggest focused bus fleet in B.C. The city will serve some 40,000 meals and provide lodging for 3,000-plus athletes and coaches at local school dorms. Over 2,500 volunteers are needed to deliver the BC Summer Games in a variety of roles suiting all abilities, including traffic control, dorm managers, security patrols and food preparation and serving.
“Council will be volunteering their time and I encourage you to sign up as well,” said Ruimy. “It’s a great way to be part of the excitement and experience the Games from behind the scenes."
Sign up today at viewTEAM Online Portal (bcgames.net).
Maple Ridge proudly recognizes over 40 Hometown Heroes (HTH) who have achieved national or international success in their chosen sport. Eight of the heroes are alumni of the BC Games, and their posters will be displayed at various city facilities. The Games alumni are Kim Eagles, Karina Leblanc, Wes Hammer, Sean McBeth, Nathan Stein, Monika Eggens, Brett Sonne, and Garet Hunt.
