Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/1520273
10 Active Aging | SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2024 THE DUBNICOFFS SAY DOING AN ACTIVITY EVERY DAY KEEPS THEM YOUNG. ore than 40 years ago, Jack Dubnicoff made a key decision about his health that he figured would lead him down one of two paths. JACK & CAROL DUBNICOFF: ENJOYING FITNESS, FUN & FRIENDSHIP AT THE 55+ GAMES EVERY DAY, WE GO AND DO SOMETHING. WE GO SWIMMING, WE PLAY GOLF, WE GO LAWN BOWLING OR LIFT SOME WEIGHTS. — JACK DUBNICOFF M The one he chose has not only proven beneficial to his well-being, but it's a path he heartily encourages others to follow. "After I quit smoking 42 years ago, I decided that I was either going to get fit or get fat," he says. "I chose to get fit – and I've been doing something about that every day for the past 42 years." Suffice it so say Dubnicoff and his wife Carol are enthusiastic believers in the value of active living as a major contributor to a happy, healthy life. Now 87, he works out at a gym three times a week and regards the effort as far more of a pleasure than a pain. "My wife and I are always active," he says. "Every day, we go and do something. We go swimming, we play golf, we go lawn bowling or lift some weights. It has real benefits. If you don't get active, you are missing out on a good life." Jack's fitness quest took another turn for the better when he saw a newspaper ad for the 2010 Manitoba 55+ Games in Killarney – an event that was new to him at the time, but piqued his interest. A runner in his youth and an eventual Manitoba Running Association Hall of Famer, Jack was intrigued by the running events, so he and Carol decided to attend. The couple had such a great experience there that they have returned every year since, except for the year that a pulled muscle forced Jack to stay home. Since his initial participation, Jack has expanded his Games repertoire to include other activities such as swimming and golf. "Carol has always been active, but the first few years that we went to the Games, she didn't participate in the events," says Jack. "After a few years, I encouraged her to give it a try. We've both been participating every year and she comes home with a bunch of medals." Both Dubnicoffs are quick to point out that the Manitoba 55+ Games are not all about sports and competition, but rather about participating and socializing. With events and activities for every skill level, and organized in age groupings, the event brings together participants from every region of the province. Jack says the opening ceremonies are just like the Olympics, with each region parading in as a group. A friendly, helpful volunteer contingent is always supportive, cheering on the competitors and typically serving up food and hospitality that he says is out of this world. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!