Penticton scores 2016 BC Winter Games

Penticton has been awarded the rights to host the 2016 BC Winter Games.
“Penticton was the first host of the BC Summer Games back in 1978, and with today’s announcement, this fantastic host city has come full circle,” said MLA for Penticton Bill Barisoff.
“I know that the people of Penticton will do a wonderful job hosting the 2016 BC Winter Games with the result that young athletes province-wide will benefit. Congratulations Penticton!”
The city also hosted the 1990 BC Winter Games and 1995 BC Summer Games.
“The economic impact of hosting the BC Winter Games is estimated to be $1.8 million to the host community, and this will have a huge impact in the South Okanagan and Similkameen,” said Penticton Mayor Dan Ashton.
Over 2100 athletes, coaches, and officials will participate in approximately 18 sports, February 25-28, 2016.
The Games will be organized and staged by a community Board of Directors and 2000 volunteers.
Three other communities were announced as hosts of future BC Games in separate events today.
The 2016 BC Summer Games will be held in Abbotsford with the 2018 BC Winter Games returning to Kamloops and the Cowichan Valley hosting the 2018 BC Summer Games.