Surrey needs a big volunteer team to plan 55+ BC Games in 2027
Published 2:30 pm Wednesday, March 25, 2026
A dozen volunteer board members are needed to help organize the 2027 edition of 55+ BC Games in Surrey.
The annual event, held in different cities, is billed as British Columbia’s largest multi-sport event for adults aged 55 and older.
In Kamloops this fall, close to 2,500 competitors are expected in 27 events including three new demonstration sports.
Surrey seeks “passionate community members” to help plan next year’s event, Sept. 14-18, 2027.
This spring, on April 25 at South Surrey Recreation and Arts Centre, free sport “try it” sessions are planned during a Games-related Play for Life 55+ Sport and Wellness event, 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sports include walking soccer, badminton, carpet bowling, table tennis, boccia and more, with free refreshments, light lunch and door prizes. Register on surrey.ca.
The 2027 55+ BC Games promise to bring thousands of participants, volunteers and visitors to Surrey, showcasing “the city’s vibrant spirit and welcoming atmosphere,” a city hall news release trumpets.
Applicants are needed for board vice-president along with directors of administration, medical services, promotions, protocol, transportation, venue operations and other positions listed on surrey.ca.
“Directors are expected to serve from Board appointment in April 2026 through to the closing of the Host Society in June 2028,” the website notes. “Directors oversee their portfolio throughout the planning, Games-time operations, and post-Games wrap-up phases.”
Orientation sessions start in May for the board, which will get to work this fall in partnership with city staff, community partners and BC Seniors Games Society.
Volunteers play a key role in making large events like the 55+ BC Games possible, Mayor Brenda Locke says.
“Serving on the board is a meaningful way to support your community and help create a memorable experience for participants and visitors. I encourage everyone to be part of the Games, whether that’s volunteering, participating, or cheering on the athletes.”
Athlete registration for 2026 is done on 55plusbcgames.org. “Registration is currently closed due to software issues (Registration for Hockey, Pickleball, Slo-Pitch and Soccer begins May 4, 2026),” the website says.
New demonstration sports for 2026 are 5K trail run, cornhole and gravel bike racing, along with 8-ball pool, snooker, cycling, horseshoes, pickleball, table tennis, archery, darts, ice curling, soccer, tennis, badminton, disc golf, hockey, slo-pitch, track & field, carpet bowling, 5-pin bowling, lawn bowling, triathlon, cribbage, golf, mountain bike racing and swimming.