Berwick Retirement Communities held a torch-lighting ceremony at Berwick Qualicum Beach on Thursday (June 2) to launch the start of the countdown to the 55+ BC Games, set for Victoria, Sept. 13 to Sept. 17.
This was one of a series of torch-lighting events organized by Berwick Retirement Communities, a proud sponsor of the games.
Berwick Qualicum Beach gathered outside with residents, staff, previous and current athletes, and other special guests including Paul Kingan, President of the BC Senior Games Society, and Qualicum Beach Coun. Anne Skipsey to celebrate the torch and cauldron lighting.
The torch-bearers from Berwick Qualicum were Ed Melville, who participated in the games for hockey, Doreen Sharrett, who was the president of the board in Manitoba for the first provincial games in Canada, and Lois Smith, who medalled in swimming.
READ MORE: Parksville Qualicum Beach athletes can now register for 55+ BC Games in Victoria
Several Berwick residents are former competitors at the games. Among them are Joan Tebbutt of Berwick Comox Valley, who participated in golf; and Kathleen Lamb, also of Berwick Comox Valley, who participated in race walking.
Eleanor, a resident of Berwick on the Lake, represented Canada in field hockey at the Worlds in Amsterdam and held Canada’s national high-jump record for women, was inducted into the BC Sports Hall of Fame. She is one of several Berwick resident volunteers eager to contribute to the celebration of athletics.
Berwick’s commitment to creating active, inspired lifestyles for seniors complements the mission of the games: to celebrate healthy adults 55+ years of age through fun and competitive sports and recreation activities. Being able to host a torch relay and light the cauldron is an exciting way for residents, staff and the greater community to play a fun role in the beginning of the countdown to this significant event.
— NEWS Staff