More than 1,000 of the province’s best young athletes are arriving in Fort St. John for the opening of the 2020 BC Winter Games and the chance to compete in 15 sports.

“Like British Columbians all over the province, I’m cheering on everyone participating in the 2020 BC Winter Games. Your skill and drive are inspiring to us all,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture. “I’m thrilled that Fort St. John is welcoming people from across the province and beyond to enjoy the excitement of the games. It’s a wonderful opportunity to welcome visitors to your community and to showcase everything you have to offer. Best wishes for a fun Winter Games experience!”

More than 1,000 athletes between the ages of 9 and 17 years are competing in 15 different sports, ranging from ice and snow events, such as alpine skiing, to indoor competitions, such as curling and rhythmic gymnastics. The athletes are supported by over 2,000 volunteers, 300 coaches and 190 officials, who will ensure participants have the best possible competitive experience at the Winter Games.

“We are grateful for the incredible work that Fort St. John has done to prepare for the Games – this level of commitment to sport and community truly exemplifies the spirit of the north,” said Alison Noble, President and CEO of the BC Games Society. “These emerging high-performance athletes are a source of pride and inspiration to us all. Congratulations Fort St. John on hosting this important event. Thank you athletes, coaches and officials for your support of these Games.”

The Games have a positive and lasting impact on the City of Fort St. John, with more than 2,000 volunteers participating and an estimated economic impact of up to $1.6 million.

“We are ready to host the Winter Games and are excited to welcome BC’s athletes, coaches and officials to BC’s most northern host city in the Games history,” said Darren Snider, President, Fort St. John 2020 BC Winter Games. “I hope all the participants have a wonderful time filled with memorable experiences.”

The BC Winter and BC Summer Games were established in 1978 to bring the province together in the spirit of sport and friendship.