Ontario runner John Winchester and his daughters Jessica and Jacquelin at Hillside Stadium (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Chad Klassen

CANADA 55+ GAMES

Support heard loud and clear by athletes at 55+ Games in Kamloops

Aug 25, 2022 | 3:54 PM

KAMLOOPS — With the sound of the gun at Hillside Stadium, the race is on. The runners are trying to win, but that’s not the end-all-be-all.

“The competitors from all across the country, and that’s really what it’s about. If you come away with a medal, that’s a bonus, but it’s just the association with people 55 and over,” said Ontario runner John Winchester.

Winchester brought along with him a small cheering section — his daughters Jessica and Jacquelin who showed up with signs that read ‘Seniors Discount at the Finish Line’ and ‘Collect CPP Here.’

Everyone has been cheering everyone on, and it’s been like that all week at most sports venues.

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Swimming has been especially loud for the competitors as they touch the wall, regardless of what their time is.

“There’s a lot of support for everybody and particularly for those who are the veterans of swimming. That warms the cockles of my heart,” said Northwest Territories swimmer Mary-Pat Short.

Short says swimming is much more supportive than Scrabble, which she’s played at the 55+ Games before.

“That was much more competitive in an overtly obeying-the-rules of not speaking, etc.,” said Short. “Where here [at the pool] people are congratulating and cheering for one another, wherever they come from.”

The support keeps these 55-plus athletes staying active and coming back to the Games year after year.

“Yeah it’s great. It’s a great gathering from people all over Canada, you meet people, it’s fun, it’s something to train for,” said Yukon swimmer Jennifer Trapnell. “Everyone has a good time. Yukoners love to have fun, so we really enjoy it here.”

Some of the athletes will be back at the Canada 55+ Games in Quebec in two years.

“We’re already looking forward to Trois Riviere in 2024,” said Winchester. “And my girls have already said ‘Good excuse for a road trip.'”