10 Active Aging Week September 22-28, 2013
A proud southern town hosts its first successful set of Games!
year as local RCMP staff were on hand to escort the cyclists safely down the highway. The up-and-coming pickleball racquet sport made its debut as a full event in the Games this year and was it ever a hit— complete with rows of spectators cheering on the participants! Social events for the week included the Variety Concert on Tuesday night, when participants were entertained by some very talented local groups, and the Athletes’ Banquet on Wednesday night. There was even a karaoke component to the evening where locals and participants had the courage to go up on stage and sing along with their favourite tune. Many new elements were introduced to the Games this year, demonstrating just what a creative and passionate community Morris truly is! A “Winner’s Circle,” complete with backdrop, beautiful flower arrangements and cameras was created in the lobby attached to the Games Headquarters to capture those winning moments as each participant (or team) was presented with their winning medals. In fact, some of those medals were presented to some lucky participants by our special guest, Canadian Olympic medalist Janine Hanson. Congratulations to everyone for participating in the 31st anniversary of the 55 Plus Games! Stay tuned for details on another wonderful celebration and an announcement about the Games’ host community in 2014!
By Karyn Heidrick Games Coordinator T he 31st annual Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries 55 Plus Games was a three-day celebration that enjoyed the perfect amounts of heat, humidity and a touch of rain. More than 1,000 athletes, 200 volunteers and many spectators enjoyed all that Morris had to offer between June 11 and June 13, 2013. The celebration began with the Opening Ceremonies on June 11 at the impressive facility known as the SMCC (Southern Manitoba Convention Centre). In attendance was a parade of athletes, along with the Honourable Minister Jim Rondeau, Mayor of Morris Gavin van der Linde and Canadian rower and Olympic silver medalist Janine Hanson, who brought greetings on behalf of the title sponsor, Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries. After a few friendly comments from the dignitaries, Morris host committee co-chairs Cheryl Waldner and Angela Reid took the stage to officially open the Games for 2013. The 16 km cycling event was back in full gear this
Above: Nordic pole walkers take part in the Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries 55 Plus Games in Morris. Left: Olympic rower and silver medalist Janine Hanson was on hand to present medals to some Games participants. Photos courtesy of ALCOA-MB.
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