The spirit of community, connection, and especially active aging was celebrated here last week with the Manitoba 55+ Games being hosted by Morden, Winkler, and Stanley in partnership with Active Aging Manitoba.
Ukrainian United School students at the opening ceremonies for the Manitoba 55+ Games last week
Reading the Participant’s Oath was Mordenite Lois Dudgeon, who has competed in the Games for 25 years
An opening ceremony last Tuesday at the Access Event Centre welcomed participants from all regions of the province. The celebrations included dance performances by Ukrainian United School students along with greetings from local dignitaries.
Morden-Winkler MLA Carrie Hiebert commented on the sense of community and the connections that make events like this one so special.
The Manitoba 55+ Games took place in venues throughout Morden-Winkler-Stanley June 9-11. Over 800 athletes from across the province competed in a host of sports, demonstrating you’re never too old to stay active or try something new
“I know, as I was waiting in the lobby, they were just chatting about how much fun you guys were all having reconnecting … that’s really great to see and hear,” she said. “Your dedication, your enthusiasm, and your commitment to active living are an inspiration to all of us.”
Hiebert gave kudos to the team of organizers and volunteers who have spent months working to make this event possible.
“It takes an army… over 830 participants registered so far, and 150 volunteers, so that says a lot about our community, about how much we are involved and how much we love and how much we give.”
Morden Mayor Nancy Penner, who spoke also on behalf of the RM of Stanley and City of Winkler, issued a welcome to all of the participants, volunteers, and supporters.
“It’s great to see how these Games bring Manitobans together from all corners of the province,” she said. “We’re glad to have you all here, and I hope you have a bit of time this week to explore some of the special attractions, local shops, and hospitality we have to offer.”
“Our three communities often work together, collaborating on different projects and initiatives. Maybe not all of them are as fun as this one, but we’re very proud of our shared achievements, including the most recent one that, like this event, encourages both connection and active living,” she said of the recent ribbon cutting for the Stanley Community Pathway.
The three days of competition took place at venues across the region.
