Active Aging

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2024 | Active Aging 7 "This is a qualifying year for the Canadian Senior 55+ Games, so winners will be able to qualify to participate in the 55+ games in Quebec City this August," Watson notes. "The event with the largest registration is undoubtedly pickleball, but other events like slo-pitch and golf should also see significant numbers of participants." With plenty of excitement in store, she adds that Brandon has much to offer visitors. "The Riverbank Discovery Centre gives visitors a chance to experience the Assiniboine River Corridor through an expansive trail system, canoe and kayak rentals and launch, and the Brandon Tourism Visitor Centre. It's an excellent place to spend some time getting in touch with nature." There are other great attractions to experience, such as the newly re-opened Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum. "It's dedicated to the plan for training air force personnel for the Commonwealth in the Second World War," says Watson. Brandon also offers hospitality and dining experiences with everything from locally sourced Manitoba fare to international flavours. As well, visitors will have the chance to discover Brandon through various event venues, including Ashley Neufeld Softball Complex, Healthy Living Centre at Brandon University, Sportsplex track and pool, Riverbank Discovery Centre's walking trails, and the ANAF and legion facilities. Other venues include T-Birds Bowling, Seniors for Seniors, Riverview Curling Club, Wheat City Golf Course and Wheat City Lawn Bowling. The Dome Building will serve as the Games' headquarters. Karen Kotak, host committee chair, says Brandon is an amazing place to hold events. "We have a venue for every event, which hasn't been the case in some other Games years, so were fortunate to have that. We are planning a few extras that haven't typically been done, such as a free pancake breakfast for the athletes and volunteers on the first morning, Tuesday from 7 to 9 a.m." Adding to the excitement, plans are in the works for a banquet on Wednesday evening followed by entertainment from a live band called Clubbing Fraggles. Tickets are limited and will be available for purchase during registration and at the Dome Building headquarters until they're sold out. In addition, an online 50/50 is gaining momentum; it will continue until the last day of the Games. The link for the 50/50 is on the Active Aging in Manitoba's website or on the Brandon 55+ Games Facebook page. Helping hands are always in demand for the Games, with ample opportunities to get involved. "We are still looking for volunteers and sponsorship," Kotak added. "Without them, these events certainly would be impossible to do." To learn more about Brandon — including a list of restaurants, hotels, and attractions — visit www. brandontourism.com. Get travel coverage from the brand Manitobans trust. Learn more and purchase travel plans with Manitoba Blue Cross: ■ Visit mb.bluecross.ca ■ Call 204.775.0151 ■ Talk to your trusted broker *Trademark of the CABCP †Trademark of the BCBSA Made-in-Manitoba coverage for getting-OUT-of-Manitoba trips GOLF IS ONE OF THE MORE POPULAR EVENTS AT THE 55+ GAMES.

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