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Editorial: 55-plus Games in Coquitlam set an example for all

Let's get behind the 55+ BC Games in Coquitlam this week
55+ BC Games
Don't forget to attend the 55+BC Games this week. The athletes are a model for healthy living.

The name of Coquitlam's biggest local sporting event — the 55+ BC Games — is a bit of a mouthful but that's not a reason to ignore this event taking place between today through Saturday.

In fact, the 3,200 men and women of a mature age who are taking part deserve our utmost respect and our support. And the 1,200 volunteers from across the province who are helping out deserve a pat on the back, too.

Here's why:

These folks are living proof that healthy lifestyles and friendly competition don't have to stop even though muscles aren't as taught as they once were, hair is grey, thinning or gone, and the eyes need corrective lenses of one sort or another.
Who says a younger athlete has more value than an older, experienced athlete who can still run the race?

Granted, some of the events are not those you might see in the Olympics: bridge and cribbage, are some of your more stationery events, but still important for brain fitness — and fun, too.

Other events are more active and you can bet we will see some records set in cycling, dragon boat racing, golf, ice hockey, soccer, tennis, track and field, and swimming, to name a few.

It has already been demonstrated that these games will add more than $3 million in economic spinoffs. But these athletes are also saving the Canadian health care system millions by participating in activity that can prevent chronic illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, emphysema and Alzheimer's.

As well, it should be noted that these games build friendship and create camaraderie — important considerations given the isolation that can often come with aging.

So take in the opening ceremonies (Wednesday between 7 and 8:30 p.m. at the Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex), watch the events or take in the closing ceremonies expected to take place Saturday between 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. at the PSLC.

Maybe after seeing all these positive role models, you too, will decide to participate in a new sport or activity.