Promoting Well Being

November 2009

Banbridge Leisure Centre was the venue for the Southern Area SportsFest on 4 November 2009. A total of 125 people took part from in this event which attracted people aged 50 and over from across the entire Southern Area.

The event was hosted by the Southern Area Physical Activity Implementation Group (SAIG) and attracted participants from ten different plus 50+ clubs from across the Southern Area.

The aim of the day was to have fun and get active offering the participating teams an opportunity to meet clubs from other areas, take part in a number of fun competitive games and try out new activities. 

The day consisted of a range of fun physical activities with an element of competition, taster sessions such as Nordic walking, dodge ball and information workshops to raise awareness amongst the group of some of the key issues and developments for the 50+ clubs focusing on Swine Flu and Access to Benefits.

Councillor Elizabeth Ingram, Chairman, Banbridge District Council presented the prizes to the teams.  “The SAIG group works in partnership with the local authorities to improve access to physical activity provision and participation opportunities for older people. The representation of teams from 50+ clubs across the Southern Area shows the great work which has been done to meet the needs of this age group.  We are delighted to host this event here in Banbridge”

Sabrina Lynn, Physical Activity Coordinator for the Southern Trust summed up the event:

“Today’s event is all about encouraging people in the older age group to get and keep active.  As we age it is important to maintain our activity levels in order to keep our bones, muscles and heart strong and healthy and to maintain our independence and quality of life.  As we get older, regular physical activity can help us to stay in touch with friends and neighbours, and to get out and about therefore reducing social isolation.  50+ clubs are an ideal place to get active and meet other people”

For more information on 50+ clubs in your area contact Sabrina Lynn on 028 38344973