Several of Quesnel senior residents are already preparing for the B.C. Senior Games, in Langley Sept. 9 - 13.
Established in 1988, these games provide an opportunity for people 55 years of age or older to stay healthy and active, with two age categories 55–59 and 60-year-old and up.
There are a number of sporting events to choose from such as archery, darts, golf, horseshoes, tennis and many more.
Teams are made up from 12 provincial zones across B.C. with Quesnel part of the North Central or zone nine.
This zone is made up of participants from Mackenzie to 70 Mile house and out to McBride.
Each of the 12 zones are responsible for sending a team to the senior games.
Unlike most senior games held across Canada the BC Senior Games are held every year, rather than ever two years.
Bob Hesketh, this year's coordinator for Quesnel, regularly attends the senior games and is expecting some of Quesnel's senior residents to be participating in several of the sporting events such as golf, track and field, base ball, horseshoes and darts.
"The thing I like most about the games is meeting new people and renewing old friendships with people from all over the province," Hesketh said
Teams for these events often vary from sport to sport, with various age and handicap requirements.
There are three medals awarded for each activity.
In order to qualify for the Canada wide senior games that happen every two years, participants must have won a medal at their provincial senior games.
Along with new members there are several regular participants from Quesnel, returning to the senior games year after year taking part in the fun and commarderdie offered.
"I enjoy the sport and all the participants have a good attitude, not really competitive." Helene Boudreau Quesnel horseshoe player and regular participant of the senior games said.
"They are all there for the good times. I've made many friend that I see once a year.
These games are not only a sporting event but a social occasion providing a great way to meet new people or reconnect with friends made in previous years.
Many of the zones across B.C. organize events throughout the year as well.
The event can be supported on several non-particpant levels as well, providing non-competitors to opportunity to attend the banquet and dance.
The games require more than 1,200 volunteers at the host society as well as several volunteer opportunities within each zone.
Even if you are not participating in the game volunteers are always welcomed at a host or zone level.
For information on how to get involved with the B.C. Seniors Games contact Bob Hesketh at 250-992-9535 or heskethr@telus.net or visit www.bcseniorgames.org