Friday Recap: Big Wins, Bigger Moments
The competition heated up on Friday as athletes across Kelowna chased podium finishes. From standout performances in athletics and swimming to impressive displays of endurance in triathlon, competitors rose to every challenge with determination, sportsmanship, and pride
Athletics Medalists Rise Above The Heat And Pressure
Veronica De Tena | Athletics (Female)
Warm temperatures and enthusiastic cheers created a memorable backdrop for the athletics competition at the Apple Bowl in Kelowna for the BC Summer Games on Friday.
Although the conditions tested every competitor, the atmosphere remained filled with excitement as athletes from across British Columbia chased personal bests, celebrated medals, and proudly represented their zones. Behind every performance was a story of perseverance, discipline, and months of preparation.
Among the standout performances was Bella Keeyah of Zone 4, who claimed the gold medal in the pole vault. Moments after the competition, Bella described the achievement with genuine pride. “I felt pretty good, proud, and happy,” she shared. While celebrating her success, she admitted that handling the pressure before each attempt was one of the most difficult parts of the event. Her ability to stay composed ultimately helped her reach the top of the podium.
Maddison Penner enjoyed one of the most impressive performances of the day, capturing three gold medals. Despite the intense heat and travel between events, she remained focused and positive. Looking ahead, she expressed excitement about returning to compete in future BC Summer Games.
Double Gold For Sydney Moser Highlights Strong Finish At Swimming Finals
Jordg Lamita | Swimming (Female)
Sydney Moser of Zone 5 – North Vancouver delivered an outstanding performance at the BC Summer Games swimming finals on Friday, capturing two gold medals at the H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre and helping her zone add valuable points in the overall standings. Moser claimed first place in the Girls 200-metre Short Course Individual Medley, before returning to the pool to earn another gold in the Girls 200-metre Short Course Breaststroke.
Watching proudly from the stands were Sydney’s parents, who cheered her on throughout both races as she powered to two gold-medal finishes. Following the medal ceremony, Moser reflected on what the accomplishment meant to her and to her team.
“It’s a lot for my zone,” she said. “All my friends are here and it’s fun to be with everybody. It just represents hard work and dedication to the sport.” When asked about her favourite moment of the Games so far, Moser smiled as she reflected on the excitement of competition. “Probably once I got into racing,” she said. “Then first place.”
Triathletes Race To The Podium
Camilla Allen-Barker | Triathlon (Male)
The triathlon course at Sarson Beach Park delivered plenty of excitement as athletes put months of training to the test, with determination, discipline, and resilience on full display.
Pacific Coast Swimming Club athlete Ari Stamhuis captured gold in both the Supersprint and F1 events. While swimming is his strength, Ari said he has focused on improving his cycling, which he considers the most challenging part of the race. Running after completing the swim and bike remains tough, but regular runs and track and field at school have helped prepare him for the demands of competition. His advice for younger athletes is simple: “Have fun and keep training.”
Silver medallist Axal Martin, representing the Acceleration Club, credits consistent preparation for his success. His routine included training several days each week with his club, cycling with his dad, and paying close attention to nutrition to avoid cramping on race day. Staying motivated can be a challenge, but he keeps his sights set on the future, including next year’s national championships, where he hopes to improve his swimming and compete for a podium finish.
Rounding out the podium, bronze medallist Hayden Davies described the race as challenging but rewarding. Beyond competition, he loves that triathlon allows him to meet new people while staying active and healthy. His biggest challenge is making early morning practices, but his advice to future athletes is to “keep working and keep trying to get faster.”
For these young competitors, every finish line represents another step toward even bigger goals.
Wrapping up Friday
From pole vaulters overcoming pressure to sprinters pushing through injury and throwers competing under intense heat, the athletes continued to inspire everyone in attendance of the Kelowna 2026 BC Summer Games. Their resilience, passion, and commitment captured the true spirit of the BC Summer Games and served as a reminder that success is measured by courage, perseverance, and the willingness to keep striving.
A big thank you to everyone who supported our amazing athletes in the heat, and to our tireless volunteers.
