Morris has been named host for the 2013 Manitoba 55Plus Games, to be held from June 11 to 13. This announcement was made by Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs Minister Jim Rondeau last evening in the south central town.
“The 55Plus Games brings older adults together from across the province to enjoy three days of healthy competition with an emphasis on friendship and good sportsmanship,” said Rondeau. “This is a very inspiring event and we are proud to support older Manitobans in staying fit, healthy and active in their senior years.”
The 55Plus Games feature a variety of events for all experience levels from those who are keen on challenging their own abilities to those who are attracted more by the social interaction the games provide. Last year’s event in Arborg attracted nearly 900 participants, competing in events such as bowling, carpet bowling, contract bridge, cribbage, darts, floor curling, floor shuffleboard, golf, horseshoes, Scrabble, snooker, slo-pitch baseball, swimming, whist, track events including predicted time walks, and various arts and crafts. New events have been added including pickleball, Nordic pole walking and cycling.
“Our goal is to host the most memorable games ever and we have a dedicated group of volunteers committed to making that happen,” said Cheryl Waldner, senior services resource co-ordinator for the Morris area. “We welcome all competitors and we invite all Manitobans to join us for the games and to cheer on our participants.”
“The Active Living Coalition for Older Adults in Manitoba (ALCOA-MB) is thrilled to continue as the lead provincial organization for the Manitoba 55Plus Games,” said Fred Bieber, chair of ALCOA-MB. “We hope everyone involved has an opportunity to create lasting memories and make friends for life. The 55Plus Games present a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate healthy active aging for all ages and stages.”
The town of Morris is a community of 1,700 people located in the centre of the Red River Valley, 30 minutes south of Winnipeg.
For more information on the 55Plus Games, visit www.alcoamb.org or contact the ALCOA-MB official 55Plus Games office at 204-261-9257 in Winnipeg, 1-855-261-9257 (toll-free) or by email at manitoba55plusgames@gmail.com.
