Active Aging

8 ACTIVE AGING WEEK | OCTOBER 3-9, 2022 BY JENNIFER MCFEE T he 2022 Manitoba 55+ Games reignited participants' spirits for a win-win event that offered fun, friendship and fitness to everyone involved. Since the games launched in 1983, they've offered recreational activities in an entertaining social and cultural atmosphere. The spirit of the games extends beyond the summer, since participants reap rewards year-round from their active lifestyle. After a pandemic pause, the games returned this year with a hybrid model that allowed participation both in-person and virtually for anyone aged 55 and older. The in-person portion drew crowds to Selkirk from June 7 to 9 to cheer on competitors in a wide range of activities. "We were surprised at how big it got. It was our first in-person games in two years," says Karyn Heidrick, co-ordin- ator for the games. "We were happily surprised by how many people came out to it. It was amaz- ing." In total, more than 900 partici- pants took part, including about 65 golfers for an event that was rescheduled to August. Pickleball was particularly popular with participation from about 200 teams. "Our pickleball event just exploded," she says. "They had to have it at two different venues because they needed so many courts. It was much bigger than we initially thought it would be." As the host city, Selkirk did an impressive job of organizing everything, she adds. "Selkirk was committed to this event and seeing it through. We started talks with them back in 2019 because the games were supposed to be in 2020. After a two-year hiatus, it was impressive that they were able to put on such an amaz- ing event. Their hospitality was great, and they really showcased Selkirk." Throughout it all, safety remained top of mind with pandemic protocols in place, she notes. "Things looked a little different this year, but I think participants understood that. For example, we had to ask for proof of vaccination," Heidrick says. "We made those stipulations when the requirements were changing so frequently because we wanted to keep people as safe as we could coming to a larger event." Participants travelled from all corners of the province for the in-person events. "We had some participants come from The Pas and Thompson, so people really do travel each year for the games," she says. "We kept hearing how grateful people were to have the games back in person again after so long. This year, we reignited the spirit of the games." ALL INCLUSIVE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY 40 DUNKIRK DRIVE Call Jenna Moore to book your tour today 204.231.5777 • Three nutritious Meals a Day • Complimentary 24 Hour Bistro • In suite laundry • Fitness Centre • Craft and Games Area • Complimentary Internet Access Room • Dry Cleaning Pickup and Delivery • Building Staffed 24/7 • 24 Hour Emergency Response Pendant • Weekly in-Suite Light Housekeeping Services • Weekly Linen and Towel Services • Complimentary Transportation to Medical Appointments and Outings • Heat, Hydro, and Water Karyn Heidrick Spirit of Manitoba 55+ Games Reignites CONTINUED ON PAGE 9 Senior Rates 65+ (plus taxes and disbursements) One Will $195.00 Mutual Wills $295.00 Power of Attorney $150.00 Two Power of Attorneys $250.00 Will and Power of Attorney $295.00 Mutual Wills and Power of Attorneys $395.00 1002 Pembina Highway (204) 284.3221 Where there's a Will... Going cycling with a group promotes socialization and getting outdoors. (Supplied photo)

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