Four days of spirited competition at the 55+ B.C. Games ended in Nanaimo, with athletes celebrating medals, camaraderie, and community pride.
Games Conclude After Four Days
The 55+ B.C. Games officially wrapped up Saturday, Sept. 13, after four days of spirited competition across Nanaimo, Duncan, Nanoose Bay, and Parksville. The multi-sport event drew athletes from across the province, many experiencing their first taste of the Games while others added to longstanding traditions.
Celebrating Victories on the Ice
Some of the last medals awarded came from the hockey rinks. In a nail-biting final at the Nanaimo Ice Centre, Zone 3 Crush edged out Zone 1 Adanacs 1–0 to capture the women’s 60-plus division. Team captain Christine Gardiner of Surrey said defending their gold was especially rewarding. “At this age, it’s about doing what we love, and to come out on top again was incredible,” she said.
Team Spirit Defines the Games
On the neighbouring rink, Zone 4 Trojans earned a 6–1 win over Zone 1 in the men’s 55-plus division. For captain Dave Ritchie of North Vancouver, the Games were less about personal stats and more about collective success. “We put together a good group of guys, played hard, and enjoyed every moment,” he said of his first Games appearance.
Track Stars Shine at Rotary Bowl
The Rotary Bowl stadium saw standout performances, including from Nanaimo’s Matthew Stewart, who won five gold medals and one silver while setting personal bests. Inspired to compete in his hometown, Stewart highlighted the team spirit of Zone 2’s relay squads. Richmond’s Marty Hawes also made his debut, sprinting to double gold in the 100m and 50m dash. “My first-ever medals, and I got two of them,” he said proudly.
Pickleball Players Embrace the Challenge
Pickleball drew one of the largest turnouts, with players battling through crowded brackets to reach medal rounds. Port Alberni’s Darwin Horning, a first-time participant, captured gold but emphasized the value of camaraderie. “It’s not about the medal. It’s about good games, meeting people, and having fun,” he said, praising Nanaimo’s organization as “top notch.”
Host City Praised for Atmosphere
From the opening ceremonies to the final events, participants praised Nanaimo’s hospitality. Athletes cited the energy of volunteers, quality facilities, and warm community welcome as key highlights. Gardiner added that the ceremonies and celebrations “were outstanding,” while others called the Games one of the most well-organized editions in recent memory.
This article is original and written specifically for Surreyspeak.com
