About 3,000 participants are in town for the Games, with about 900 volunteers signing on to make sure 25 events proceed swimmingly across the city.
“For mental and physical fitness, it really is good for this age group, and it’s good to be able to strive to be your best still at this age,” said Ron McColl, president of the Games host society.
“If people want to come down and see pickleball, swimming, archery at Albert McGowan Park, tennis at the tennis club, there are things to do everywhere in the city.”
CFJC dropped by Hillside Stadium to catch runners crossing the finish line in track-and-field events, while table-tennis players squared off inside the Tournament Capital Centre.
“It’s my first time, but I think people are here to enjoy themselves – want to win, as well, but not at all costs,” said David Blackwell, a lawn bowler from Kamloops.
For some, the Games are about pushing themselves in competition. Socializing and fun are goals for others.
“I got suckered into it, talked into it, just for the fun of going out and doing lawn bowling,” Laurel MacKay of Kamloops said. “It’s enjoyable.”
Added Everett Jensen: “Competition is competition, but it seems to be different when you get older. Everybody’s so friendly and supportive.”
Competition wraps up on Saturday, just in time for DeWald’s birthday celebration.
“We had a great pep rally last night,” she said. “Oh, we’re going to have so much fun and we’re just beginning.”
Go online to 55plusgamesbc.org to find the events schedule.