By Vivian Collings
The Ontario Senior Games Association is warming up for the 55+ Games this year, and registration is now open to anyone 55 and over hoping to join in the fun.
Haliburton/Muskoka’s District 11 is excited to be back with both indoor and outdoor events this spring after two years of modified games due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Jane Symons is a participant in walking and received bronze in the Canada 55+ 2022 Summer Games in Kamloops, BC. She was one of the six competitors from District 11 to move on to the national level last year.
She said registering for the games has brought many benefits to her life.
“I couldn’t wait to be 55 to join,” Symons said. “I feel that the games are a way of integrating seniors for mental, social, and physical activities.”
Although some events are not physical, like bridge and euchre, they are ways to get social.
“It’s a good way of meeting new people and trying new things. It’ll be nice to get some new people out this year. We’re always looking for more,” Symons said.
The activities currently offered in Haliburton County are bid euchre, bridge, cribbage, golf, pickleball, shuffleboard, tennis, and walking.
“The more interest we get, the more events we may be able to host in the future,” Symons said.
This year, District 11 has two new members on their executive board.
“This year’s been exciting,” said district coordinator Mary Johnson. “Our new members are doing such a great job.”
Participants can be 54 as long as they turn 55 before the end of 2023.
To download District 11’s registration form, visit district11.osga55plus.ca/. Copies are also available at the Minden and Haliburton Legions, Minden and Haliburton library branches, and the Minden Community Centre. All forms must be returned by mail, and the registration deadline is April 20. The fee to register is $25.