Scott Ackles leads Surrey's 55+ BC Games organizing team with year to prepare for 2027 event

Scott Ackles will lead a 13-person team organizing Surrey's 55+ BC Games, planned for September 14-18, 2027.

The annual event, held in different cities, is billed as British Columbia's largest multi-sport event for adults aged 55 and older. Surrey was announced as host city of the 40th annual Games back in November 2022.

Anounced on August 26, the Games board includes Ackles as president alongside Nicholas Cartmell (vice-president), Aneesha Narang (administration), Joanna Moore (culture and events), Walter Cosman (Friends of the Games), Andrea Nicholson (medical services), Jennifer Landers (promotions), Geoff Pegg (protocol), Bev Viger (sport), Amit Pulani (technology), Anastasia Alexeeva (transportation), Jake McCallum (venue operations), and Carolyn Walsh (volunteer and participant services).

In South Surrey, Ackles is executive director of Semiahmoo Ravens Minor Hockey Association and is known in football circles for his work with the BC Lions and BC Football Hall of Fame.

The board's first meeting was held May 27 in Surrey. In the coming months, directors will work to fill positions within their directorates and start planning for the 2027 Games, including a visit to the Kamloops 2026 55+ BC Games, held September 8-12.

Surrey's event is expected to draw close to 3,500 participants and 1,000 volunteers. "The 55+ BC Games are about much more than sport, they are about staying active, building connections, and celebrating the contributions of older adults in our communities," Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke said.

Details are posted on 55plusbcgames.org.