Belfast Seniors On Their Marks For Olympics

Older citizens are being asked to get moving and take part in a series of 'Try it' sports sessions in the run up to next year's London 2012 Olympic Games.

Youngster, William Winchester is pictured helping Mary Morrison, of the Greater Belfast Seniors' Forum to launch Belfast City Council's 'taster events' for older people.

They are being held at three local leisure centres, Andersonstown, Avoniel and Ballysillan with the first session set to take place at Andersonstown on Monday, 26 September between 12noon-3pm. Commenting, Councillor Bernie Kelly, Chairman of the Older Persons All-Party Reference Group, said: "We are trying to encourage our seniors to keep active, not just to improve their own health but to build friendships."

She continued: "Next year's Olympics provides a focus point for some of the taster sports on offer which will include boccia, archery, bowls, cycling, tai chi, climbing and tennis.

"It will be a chance for them to try something new perhaps because it is important to keep active whatever your age. We will also be providing lunch free of charge so there will also be time to catch your breath between activities.

"Andersonstown Leisure Centre will host the first session, to be followed by Avoniel in October and Ballysillan in November," added Councillor Kelly, noting that transportation can be arranged for groups of over 15 people.

Other events will be organised during the first half of 2012 to finish with a large 'Senior Games' event in July at which seniors from all over the city will compete against each other.

(BMcC/GK)