An army of seasoned citizens will march into the West Kootenay next week for the BC Seniors Games. It’s certainly cause for celebration.
The Games are a major undertaking. More than 3,200 competitors and 1,200 volunteers are at the heart of the Games starting Tuesday. For five days the Nelson/Castlegar/Trail area will be alive with activity in events ranging from whist to shot put to one act plays.
The first round of applause of the Games goes to the local organizing committee. For the core group putting these Games together, it’s been many months of hard work. Now they are going to watch excitedly as it all unfolds before our eyes.
Take a look at the list of Nelson area participants on pages 20 and 21 of today’s paper. It’s long and the odds are pretty good you know at least a few of the names. These men and women are in for a tremendous few days of competition, camaraderie and lasting memories. They will push their bodies and minds to the limit. In the end they will all be able to bask in a job well done.
Beyond the organization and competition is the communities themselves. The 2011 Games have been an exercise in cooperation between towns that are traditional rivals. Next week we will have an opportunity to show off the wonderful plot of the province we call home. In that sense we are all ambassadors to our guests. A simple smile and “hello” to a stranger will help leave a pleasant impression on those who are coming to compete.
At the root of all of this is a lesson. Politicians, professionals and advocates spend a lot of time debating the future of health care. Health care wants and needs for an aging population are many and it’s an impossible puzzle to solve.
But if we are looking for the key to a healthy and happy life beyond the age of 55, it will be on full display for five days next week. Take the time to have a look around and soak in the spirit of all those involved. Wearing a swim cap, riding a road bike or dealing a hand of cards, the answer will be right before your eyes.
— Nelson Star