Nanaimo 2014 BC Summer Games Countdown

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Minister Don McRae lights the torch. Photo Credit Dirk Heydemann

The official countdown to the 2014 BC Summer Games kicked off tonight with the Torchlighting Ceremony held at Nanaimo’s Maffeo Sutton Park.   In 97 days, as many as 3900 participants from across the province will meet in Nanaimo for four days of competition and celebration.

“This is an exciting night for Nanaimo,” said Coralee Oakes, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development. “The BC Summer Games will bring significant economic benefits to the community – in the neighbourhood of $2.6 million and I know that Nanaimo will do a wonderful job as host city.”

Global Morning News anchor, Steve Darling, emceed the ceremony which was attended by dignitaries, organizers, sponsors, volunteers, and community supporters.  The Snuneymuxw Dance Group performed a welcome dance and local artists including the Wellington Gr. 11 Jazz Band, the Nanaimo Youth Choir and Vibrant Dance entertained the audience.  The official 2014 BC Summer Games theme song composed by J. Douglas Dodd and Nico Rhodes was performed by 17 year-old singer and songwriter, Mikaila Tombe.

The highlight of the evening was the arrival of the Games torch by bathtub in true Nanaimo fashion.  The torch was relayed by four local track and field athletes and 2012 BC Summer Games alumni, Josh Bailey, Jenaya Pynn, Jason Clair, and Alyssa Mouseau.  Comox Valley MLA, and Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation, Don McRae, lit the torch on behalf of Minister Oakes.

Jeff Lott, President of the Nanaimo 2014 BC Summer Games said, “The countdown is on and it is time for everyone to ‘Get in the Games’ and be part of what will be an exciting event for Nanaimo.”

The Torchlighting Ceremony was presented by Nanaimo’s Country Grocer who has signed on as an official Friend of the Games.  Over 3200 volunteers will be needed, as well as support from local businesses. Go to www.bcgames.org/ to sign up now to help with Nanaimo's Summer Games.

The official BC Games torch is now located at Nanaimo Ice Centre and it features an LED “flame” which will remain lit through to the Games which run July 17-20.