The 2020 Senior Regional Games are being held on Tuesday 3 November and it is a chance for over 65s to come together and flex muscles they may have forgotten about.
Even if you are not the sporty type, this free event is the perfect opportunity to socialise with friends and meet new people, while trying out a wide range of exciting activities in a safe environment.
With light-exercise sports on offer like badminton, cornhole, dancing, indoor bowls, pickleball, table tennis, and walking netball and basketball, you may just leave the event with a new-found hobby.
The Senior Regional Games will be at the ASB Sports Centre in Kilbirnie, between 10am and 2pm. A light lunch will be provided on the day, and some bus transport to and from the venue is available.
This is the second year the games have gone ahead, with organiser ASB Sports Centre Programmes Coordinator Will Dewhirst saying it’s not a competitive event – it’s all about having fun and focusing on what our bodies can do, not what they can’t do.
“The purpose of the event is to show the older community what we have on offer throughout the region. A lot of people haven’t tried the sports or activities that we have, so they can come and give them a go.
“It’s about confidence building and celebrating physical activity, no matter your age, fitness or physical ability.”
The initiative is in partnership with Sport Wellington, Age Concern, Wellington City Council, and Hutt, Upper Hutt, and Kāpiti Coast councils.
Will says more than 100 people have registered to take part already, but people are more than welcome to just turn up on the day.
“Last year we had people turning up who knew a lot about sport. Everyone has a story to tell, and I was meeting former tennis and table tennis champs. It was really invigorating to see them re-experience that but in a safe environment.
“Some knew nothing about sport, so it was cool to introduce them to new things and see them get excited.”
Wellington City Council Group Fitness Coordinator Gillian Christian, of Club Active, says exercise strengthens bodies and minds and is for all ages and abilities.
“The ability to enjoy life to its fullest hinges on good health. Maintaining an active lifestyle improves our movement skills, helps with balance and stability, and increases our perspective.
“Coming together to exercise also strengthens relationships, and in turn strengthens entire communities.”
Register for the 2020 Senior Regional Games online at sportwellington.org.nz or phone Peta on 021 198 9190 for more information.
Check out some of the fun had at last year's Senior Regional Games in this video.