Active Aging

10 ACTIVE AGING WEEK | SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2017 W ith the 2017 Active Living Coalition for Older Adults in Manitoba (ALCOA- MB) led Manitoba 55+ Games only just recently completed, games co-ordinator Karyn Heidrick and her team have already started planning the 2018 event. "The 2017 games ran recently in Killarney (June 13-15) and went extremely well because it was the third time they've held the games," she says. "I think we took about two weeks off, then we were right back at it." Once again, the Manitoba 55+ Games will be held in the western part of the province, this time just a short drive down the road in Glenboro, June 12-14, 2018. Heidrick says the 2018 edition will feature over 20 events, including a pair of new events and three demonstration competitions. "The 2018 games will include two new events – bocce ball, and wall darts. There will also be three demonstration events – badminton, archery and Belgian bowling." Badminton – check; archery – check. But what exactly is Belgian bowling? "It's a mix between bowling, curling and bocce ball. Like those other three sports, there's a point you're trying to hit," she explains. "This popular cultural activity should be an interesting one to try out." It is always inspiring to witness athletes 55 and over competing in a wide range of events ranging from bowling, to floor curling, floor shuffle board, pickleball and badminton. "Anyone who's 55 or older can take part in the games – we have competitors in their nineties who compete," she says. "There are both different age categories and ability categories. The categories depend on the event. In pickle ball, for example, there are two categories – recreational and competitive." Make no mistake about it, competitive juices still flow freely. Once an event starts for real, competitors forget their age and do their level best to come out on top. "Pickle ball is a good example. It was introduced in the Manitoba 55+ Games five years ago and has grown quickly in popularity. Matches can be very tense, with a great energy level. Caring and protec ng your loved ones is important to you. Prearranging your final arrangements releases your family from unnecessary discomfort and stress and provides them peace of mind. We can help. Call today and request your FREE Personal Planning Guide Thomson "In The Park" Funeral Home & Cemetery - 204-925-1120 Green Acres Funeral Home and Cemetery - 204-222-3241 Klassen Funeral Home - 204-338-0331 Thomson Funeral Home - 204-783-7211 By acting now I can protect my family when they'll need it most Connection & competition BY TODD LEWYS continued on page 12

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