Fort St. John, BC – On Saturday December 7 Darlene Jakubowski, a local Special Olympics Figure Skater, lit the torch at Centennial Park commemorating 75 days until Fort St. John hosts the 2020 BC Winter Games.
The torchlighting ceremony was sponsored by Pembina Pipeline Corporation and took place following the local Santa Claus Parade. Over 100 people came out to witness the commemorative event.
“The countdown is on and you could feel the energy on Saturday night,” said Jeff Spenst, Pembina’s supervisor in Fort St. John. “The communities we work and do business in are also our homes. Everyone here at Pembina is looking forward to the Games and celebrating with all of Fort St. John.”
In just over two months, Fort St. John will welcome up to 1,200 athletes, 300 coaches and 200 officials to our region.
The volunteer Board of Directors is currently busy recruiting nearly 2,000 volunteers to make the Games happen.
“Volunteers are the heart and soul of the BC Games,” says Darren Snider, President of the Fort St. John BC Games Society. “We are receiving amazing community support from citizens signing up to volunteer to businesses stepping forward with incredible sponsorship contributions. Fort St. John is really stepping up to the plate and rallying around these Games.
From meal preparation, to transportation, to hospitality, and sport competitions, the enthusiasm and expertise of volunteers is what makes it all happen. There are still opportunities available to get involved and share in the energy and excitement. Volunteers are encouraged register at www.bcwintergames.ca as soon as possible. Volunteer training sessions will start in January.
Fort St John is the northern most community where the BC Games has ever been hosted and 1984 was the last time the province came to the BC Winter Games here. The economic impact of the 2020 Games is estimated to be approximately $1.6 million for Fort St. John and region. Events are being hosted within the City, the District of Taylor, City of Dawson Creek, and within the Peace River Regional District.
“This marks an important milestone in the leadup to the 2020 BC Winter Games. I am confident that with the tremendous volunteer and community support our city is known for, these games will leave a lasting legacy for all,” stated Mayor Lori Ackerman.