The City of Nanaimo is interested in playing host to another major multi-sport gathering.
The city’s finance and audit committee, at its meeting Wednesday, April 20, recommended supporting a potential bid for the 55-plus B.C. Games in 2025 or 2026.
Nanaimo last hosted the games in 2007, when they were known as the B.C. Seniors Games. That event drew more than 3,500 participants and volunteers to the city.
The 55-Plus B.C. Games would happen over four days and according to a staff report, would stimulate the local economy, boost the city’s profile and align with sports tourism and strategic goals.
“The games provide an opportunity for athletes 55-plus to compete in organized multi-sport events which promote physical excellence, physical fitness and community pride,” noted a staff report.
The staff report added that economic impact studies have shown that the games have an estimated direct economic impact of $3 million to a host community.
The bid package must include a commitment from the host city to provide $60,000 toward hosting, plus $55,000 in in-kind support. The 55-plus B.C. Games Society provides an $85,000 grant to a host committee.
READ ALSO: Registration and qualifiers underway for 55-plus B.C. Games
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