02/02/2026
Walk & Roll and Opening Ceremony
At Sturgeon Creek II Retirement Residence, 23 walkers and rollers set off on their own Yellow Brick Road adventure, challenging themselves to see how far they could go. After walking, all present were treated to entertainment with The Invisible Guys Trio and a beautiful assortment of fruits for a rejuvenating snack.
Walkers and rollers were honored to have a selection of water table dignitaries cheering them on and keeping them hydrated. They were thrilled to also have in attendance, besides all the VIP’s, Sage, the Winnipeg Police mascot, a larger-than-life dog with a waggly tail!!!
Omar Abdullahi, Winnipeg Fire and Paramedic Service, commented, “When I entered the facility, I could feel the energy and vibes from everyone involved in the event!”
Athletes and volunteers gathered for the Opening Ceremony, joined by esteemed guests from the community, business sector, and government. Dignitaries included:
• All Seniors Care Senior Executive Vice-President of Operations, Josh Kuhl
• MLA Assiniboia, Minister of Culture, Heritage, Tourism and Sport, Nellie Kennedy
• Jon Einarson, Grace Hospital Foundation Executive Director
• Manuel Ortega, Grace Hospital Foundation Administrative Coordinator
• Winnipeg Police Service Constables Andrea LaForte, Shelby Baron, Alan Quan, and Sage, the mascot
• Winnipeg Fire & Paramedic Service Deputy Chief of Safety, Emergency Management & Public Information, Jason Shaw, Louise Boily, Tamra Irwin and Omar Abdullahi
Water Table Cheerleaders:
• Linda Brown, Active Aging
• Carol Dickin, Leila Pharmacy
All extended their congratulations and good wishes to the participants. Their words of encouragement set the perfect tone for an exciting week ahead. With the Games officially open everyone at Sturgeon Creek II is looking forward to some healthy competition in the week ahead.
After the corn hole toss demonstration, where games assistant Pat C. sunk her bag, MLA Nellie Kennedy exclaimed, “I really don’t want to have to follow that throw!!” But follow it she did, with her own success!! Congratulations, Nellie!!!
Everyone should get a good nights rest as tommorrow the competitions for the medals begin!!!
See you on the Yellow Brick Road!!