Throughout the weekend, some of the province’s top young athletic talents – in 21 different sports – will showcase their skills at the Surrey-hosted B.C. Summer Games.
For some, like former Games competitors Ryder Hesjedal (cycling) and Dylan Armstrong (shotput), the event is a jumping-off point to even greater sporting glory – both Hesjedal and Armstrong will represent Canada later this month at the Summer Olympics in London.
But for the majority of the more than 3,800 athletes taking part this weekend, the B.C. Summer Games will be a memory they will carry with them for years to come, regardless of if they continue in their chosen sport into their adult years.
As such, the athletes deserve a fitting reception. They deserve to swim, run or play rugby in front of large, cheering crowds. They deserve – for one weekend if not longer – our full attention.
Why not, for a few days, make these talented teenagers feel as though they’re at their own Olympics, too?
So far, the B.C. Games organizers and volunteers are doing their part. The venues are all in tip-top shape.
And despite dwindling participation in certain large, civic events, the B.C. Games have no such issues.
In fact, more than 3,500 volunteers – most from Surrey and the Semiahmoo Peninsula – will help ensure this weekend’s festivities run smoothly.
At almost every turn, those attending the Games this weekend will see volunteers, from sport officials and coaches to medical staff to food services personnel.
All have donated countless hours to making sure all the visiting athletes leave Surrey with smiles on their faces, regardless of whether they’ve won medals.
Good on all the volunteers and good luck to the athletes.
– Peace Arch News