May 24 may have marked the end of a long weekend for many, but for local seniors, the games were just beginning.
The 2011 Waterloo Wellington District 26 Senior Games kicked off early in the morning with participants, guests, dignitaries, music and line dancing.
With host Don McNiven, the games got off to a rousing start.
He cited the great turnout for the opening ceremonies and commented on the morning’s entertainment, which included the Victoria Park Music Ensemble and the Victoria Park Seniors Centre Line Dancers.
McNiven noted he was born in the Township of Centre Wellington when it was called Fergus.
“I’m so very proud to live here today,” he said.
Guests included Wellington-Halton Hills MPP Ted Arnott, Centre Wellington Mayor Joanne Ross-Zuj, Waterloo city councillor Angela Veith, Woolwich councillor Bonnie Bryant and Centre Wellington councillor Kelly Linton.
Representing the Waterloo Wellington Senior Games District 26 was chairman Betsey Gudz.
In bringing greetings Gudz said, “The organizing committee has done a tremendous job in preparing for the 2011 games … right down to the smallest details.
“I know the next two weeks will be fun-filled, but competitive.”
Yvonne Day, brought greetings on behalf of the Ontario Senior Games Association and also recognition of the host community.
Day said there are 40 districts in the province and District 26 is very alive and active.
“We’re so happy to be doing this with the help of Centre Wellington,” she said.
Mayor Ross-Zuj said she could see by the faces of the participants that they were eager to get started. She thanked the volunteers for bringing the event together. Over 100 people have contributed to make the games run smoothly.
Ross-Zuj noted Day had stated the event “is all about fun … I just know with the types of events, they must be fun.” To those in the audience, she added, “Fergus is very much a part of Centre Wellington and we hope you enjoy your stay with us.”
She called upon Bryant, who did not have a senior games shirt, so a special shirt presentation was made.
Wellington-Halton Hills MPP Arnott was brief.
“I’m sure you’re going to have a great time and on behalf of the province of Ontario,” he hoped they had a good Games.
McNiven quipped, “Remember, these games are not a matter of life or death – it’s much more important than that. It is for fellowship, the renewal of friendship and the true spirit of seniors.”
Ross-Zuj later stated the township was hosting over 700 participants in the games, which is a wonderful plus for the municipality.
“In Centre Wellington we’re used to hosting big events and we always welcome people into our community.”
She said Centre Wellington’s seniors’ group alone has 600 members.
“From Day One of starting to plan this event, it’s been a happy experience for them.”
She said the local group has looked forward to hosting the games and inviting guests to come and participate.
“That’s what the seniors centre is all about. The programing is phenomenal and we try to keep them as active as possible – and they certainly are. It’s very healthy for us.”
