Active Aging

SATURDAY, APRIL 29, 2023 | ACTIVE AGING WEEK 3 Games participants always give it their all no matter what sport or activity they're competing in. (Courtesy of Active Aging in Manitoba) BY JENNIFER MCFEE P ortage la Prairie is rolling out the welcome mat as the host community for the 2023 Manitoba 55+ Games. Located about 75 kilometres west of Winnipeg, the community offers something for everyone, making it an ideal area to host the popular Games. Tara Pettinger, executive director of the Portage District General Hospital Foundation, and Angie Shindle, general manager of the Portage Regional Recreation Authority, are serving as co-chairs of this year's Games. Pettinger is looking forward to the ways that the Manitoba 55+ Games will bolster the community while also creating a memorable experience for those who visit Portage. "This is a great opportunity to promote wellness in our community," she says. "Portage la Prairie has so much to offer, and, by hosting, we are inviting all the participants and spectators to our community to showcase everything Portage la Prairie is about." The much-anticipated event stands out as an important occasion to the community for a multitude of reasons, she adds. "Hosting these Games gives local individuals a chance to participate or volunteer. It's also a great way for our local businesses to get involved and advertise to people throughout the province," Pettinger says. "Events will be hosted at various venues throughout the community, which gives lots of different community groups a chance to be involved." Similarly, Shindle notes that the Manitoba 55+ Games will help to bolster the local economy. "Hosting a large-scale event like the 55+ Games can bring in a significant amount of revenue for local businesses such as hotels, restaurants and shops," Shindle says. "We can showcase the communities' facilities, amenities and attractions to visitors from around the province. In addition, the Games promote healthy living and the positive impact that participating can bring." Likewise, Shindle shares similar excitement for Portage la Prairie as the host community for the upcoming event. "The Games will boost the local economy, increase community spirit and bring people from different backgrounds," she says. "They'll also bring communities together and promote active lifestyles." Adding to the excitement, this year marks the 40th anniversary of the Manitoba 55+ Games. "We will be using ruby red as our main colour to highlight the 40th anniversary," Pettinger says. "We have a spectacular entertainment lineup for the variety night and the banquet." In addition to enjoying the Games as participants, spectators or volunteers, visitors to Portage la Prairie can look forward to exploring all the sites and attractions in town and nearby. These attractions include Fort la Reine Museum, which celebrates the heritage and history of the area; Splash Island outdoor water park is another popular destination for families. Portage la Prairie's eye-catching roadside attractions also include the world's largest Coca-Cola can, and Canada's largest great grey owl statue. Nearby, visitors can relax in the great outdoors at Delta Beach, Delta Marsh, and St. Ambroise Beach Provincial Park. For visitors, accommodation options include a selection of hotels, campgrounds and more. "We encourage everyone to come out to Portage la Prairie to take in some of the amazing events that will be going on throughout the community," Pettinger says. "While you're here, you can visit some local shops, enjoy a meal at one of our great restaurants and go for a stroll on our scenic walking paths." Portage Ready to Host 2023 Games

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