55 Plus Games

5 MANITOBA 55+ GAMES presented by PLAYNOW | SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2022 BY JENNIFER MCFEE T his year's 55+ Games will offer the best of both worlds with an impressive combination of in-person and virtual events. Karyn Heidrick, Active Aging in Manitoba event co-ordinator, reflected on the success of last year's inaugural Virtual Games, which drew participation from communities across the province. First and foremost, the virtual events provided participants with a safe way to take part during the pandemic. At the same time, she's looking ahead with anticipation for this year's hybrid model that features both Virtual Games and in-person multi-sport events right in the heart of Selkirk. "Last year was the inception of the Manitoba 55+ Virtual Games. They were a resounding success with over 45 Manitoba communities taking part and being able to connect to each other," Heidrick says. "Our participants kept asking us if the Games would be back in some capacity. We knew they were missing the program." From June 7 to 9, Selkirk will be a hub of activity for athletes aged 55 and older from across the province, who will have the chance to compete in more than 15 events including bowling, pickleball and slo-pitch. For another element of anticipation, 2022 is a qualifying year for the Canada 55+ Games. Winners at these provincial games can advance to represent Manitoba at the National 55+ Games from Aug. 23 to 26 in Kamloops, B.C. After the in-person Games wrap up, the fun continues virtually. The month-long free Virtual Games will be back by popular demand, running from June 10 to July 10. Participants can keep track of their events using an activity tracker to celebrate their own personal achievements. This option is ideal for anyone who would like to continue to participate or just join in for fun. As a result, the Games will reach more people and bolster inclusion with much-needed motivation to keep moving. After the Virtual Games period ends, participants can share their stories for a chance to win prizes. With both in-person and virtual options available, this year's Manitoba 55+ Games offer something for everyone and for all abilities. "Participants can enjoy the in-person games as a kick- off to a summer of fun and activity and will hopefully be motivated to continue on for the rest of the summer, tracking their personal activity with the Virtual Games," Heidrick says. She adds that the Virtual Games is also a viable option. "If someone wishes to participate but is not able to travel to Selkirk or is not yet 100 per cent comfortable participating in community events, they can safely become or stay active themselves or within a small group of family and friends through the extended Virtual Games element." Lois Dudgeon, co-chair of the Manitoba 55+ Games committee, says this hybrid model will likely appeal to first-time Games participants. "I would expect an increase in participation numbers — mostly from those 55-plus older adults who are still working and unable to attend the Games in person. Bottom line, we're promoting the Games to a larger number of older adults," Dudgeon says. "As we always say, 'the more, the merrier.' " After two-plus years of the pandemic, the Games offer inspiration to keep active. "We're all about promoting older adults across Manitoba to be and stay active your way, every day for life, whatever their event," she says. "These Games also offer something for every age, however active they might be. We're really the 'fun, fitness, friendship' Games — one big Games family." Co-chair Jim Ticknor says he's looking forward to enjoying some in-person golfing at this year's Games. "I anticipate that I'll be able to play at least a few more rounds with people I've golfed with at the in-person Games," he says. "I anticipate extending my relationship with those golfers for a longer period than just the week of the Games and, quite possibly, to play a few courses that are new to me." For more information about the 2022 Manitoba 55+ Games, visit www.activeagingmb.ca. Hybrid Games Model Offers Best of Both Worlds Bocce ball is always one of the Games' most popular - and friendly - competitions. (Photos courtesy of Active Aging in Manitoba) The Manitoba 55+ Games highlight the importance of maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle.

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