Recap of Thursday’s Events
Artistic Gymnastics Competition Ready to Launch
By Kai Markin
JL Crowe Secondary Student
The gymnasium at Rossland Summit School has been transformed into a gymnast’s paradise for the 2026 BC Winter Games. Tumbling mats, pommel horses and a towering high bar now fill the space beneath the Canadian and B.C. flags, as artistic gymnasts took to the floor for training.
Despite the impressive skills on display, the atmosphere remained calm and focused. Other gymnasts observed from the bleachers, mentally preparing for their own sessions. “These training times are super important,” said North West Zone 7 Coach Dakota McNeil. “They give the athletes a chance to feel the environment they’ll be competing in — and we want them hyped for tomorrow.”
With competition set to begin Friday, the stage is set for an exciting start in artistic gymnastics.
Early Morning Focus Sets the Tone for Men’s Curling
By Kailey Reinhard
JL Crowe Secondary Student
At the Trail Curling Arena, men’s teams began their Games experience with early morning practice and preparation. Dressed in bright zone colours, athletes reviewed strategy before officials conducted mandatory broom inspections to ensure fairness and standardized equipment.
Once on the ice, players warmed up with controlled slides and takeoffs, filling the arena with the sound of gliding stones and coaches’ instructions. Off the ice, teams chatted easily — competitors united by their shared love of the sport.
The atmosphere blended focus and friendship, setting the tone for competition.
Ringette Delivers High-Scoring Action and a Nail-Biter Finish
By Erin Baker
JL Crowe Secondary Student
Ringette action at Rossland Arena opened with a commanding 8–1 victory for Vancouver Coastal Zone 5 over Vancouver Island Central Coast Zone 6. Zone 5 set the pace early, building a 6–0 lead through patient passing and strong offensive pressure. Zone 6 responded in the second half, highlighted by standout saves from their goalie and an enthusiastic crowd that kept the energy high.
Later in the day, fans witnessed a thrilling showdown between Fraser River Zone 4 and Vancouver Coastal Zone 5. After multiple lead changes and relentless back-and-forth play, Zone 4 secured a dramatic 5–4 victory with just 11.5 seconds remaining.
The day showcased teamwork, perseverance and a crowd that celebrated every strong play as loudly as each goal.
Wheelchair Basketball Opens with Intensity and Perspective
By Sam Auger
JL Crowe Secondary Student
Wheelchair basketball tipped off at JL Crowe Gym with an intense matchup between Thompson-Okanagan Zone 2 and Fraser Valley Zone 3. Thompson-Okanagan gained momentum in the second period, but Fraser Valley responded in the third to take a narrow lead. The back-and-forth battle continued into the final period, where Fraser Valley ultimately secured the win. Despite the pressure, athletes kept perspective. Heath Redden shared that he reminds himself “it is just for fun,” while Iona Jespersen noted, “it doesn’t always matter if you win; it’s if you think you’ve done your personal best.”
The strong performances from both teams set an exciting tone for the tournament ahead.
Judo Community Brings Experience and Tradition to the Games
By Caleb Reid
JL Crowe Secondary Student
At Fruitvale Elementary, judo coaches and officials brought decades of experience to the mat for the BC Winter Games. Many have dedicated 10, 15, even 40 years to the sport, drawn by its strong sense of community and the unique opportunity the Games provide young athletes.
Chair of the Coaching Development Committee in BC, Bruce Fingarson, began refereeing 25 years ago. He emphasizes safety and mentorship. “Refereeing is about being the right place at the right time and evaluating,” he explained.
For many athletes, this may be the only multi-sport event they experience. Yet the respect, tradition and sportsmanship — bowing at the start and end of every match — remain central to the sport’s enduring appeal.
Curling Builds Bonds Beyond the Ice
By Kailey Reinhard
JL Crowe Secondary Student
Beyond competition, men’s curling at the BC Winter Games is building lasting connections. Athletes from Kelowna and Williams Lake reflected on what the event means to them personally.
Kaydn Dunbar shared that competing alongside his brother makes the experience especially meaningful, crediting their grandfather for introducing them to the sport. “Coming here I only knew two teams, and now I know them all,” he said.
Players from Williams Lake echoed that sentiment, emphasizing how curling brings people together. For many, the Games are about more than results — they are about friendships, family traditions and shared passion.
Tradition and Team Spirit Highlight Archery Competition
By Kate Garlinge
PR Chair, 2026 BC Winter Games
Arrows flew at JL Crowe Secondary as archery competition began with a powerful tribute to tradition. Thompson-Okanagan Head Coach Bernard “Buzz” Manuel opened the event with drumming and song, honouring athletes and speaking about nurturing future generations. It marks his fifth BC Games, both as athlete and coach.
Coaches from Indigenous communities reflected on the importance of athletes representing both region and culture. Meanwhile, Cariboo North East Head Coach Lora-Lee Murray kept her team relaxed with a hot pink flamingo and playful distractions. “At this stage, it’s about keeping them out of their own heads,” she said.
Beyond competition, athletes connected over crafts and conversation — a reminder that the Games foster friendships as much as focus.
Trail and Rossland Welcome the Province at Opening Ceremony
By Karlie Shaughnessy
More than 1,600 athletes and 1,450 volunteers gathered at the Trail Memorial Centre to officially open the 2026 BC Winter Games. Teams representing 15 sports marched into the arena in a colourful parade of zones, cheered on by family and community members.
The ceremony featured local performances, including drummers, cultural dance groups and Rossland’s Boomtown Garter Girls, whose high-energy cancan performance elicited hooting and hollering from the athletes. Indigenous leaders and Games officials welcomed athletes, emphasizing unity, opportunity and respect.
As the cauldron was lit, the message was clear: the Games are about more than medals. They mark the beginning of competition, connection and memories that will last long after the final event concludes.
