At any stage of life, trying something new is a good idea. This fall, Bowen Island Community Recreation is pleased to be hosting a free Give it a Try! event for islanders aged 55+ who are interested in trying their hand at pickleball. This badminton-like sport is gaining popularity all over the province in all age groups and we are very grateful to the Give it a Try grant program and the financial support of the Province of British Columbia and the Government of Canada for bringing this event to Bowen.
Never heard of pickleball? Not to worry, there will be volunteer mentors on hand to help you out at any level of play, whether you are there to learn the basics or to hone your existing skills. And of course, we will have some great prizes to hand out.
Why 55+? Give it a Try is a grant program focused on delivering quality recreation programming to people who are over the age of 55 and building support for the 55+ B.C. Games. Pickleball is a great fit for any age range and we are excited to take this opportunity to encourage our community members to engage in this sport that is available for year-round indoor play.
Why Pickleball? Physical health: pickleball gets your heart pumping, which helps to lower blood pressure and increase lung capacity while also facilitating the release of feel-good endorphins. Social: pickleball is a multi-player sport, which makes it a great way to socialize and connect. Coordination: pickleball requires hand-eye coordination, which helps to improve cognitive health and promote brain stimulation.
Mental health: both physical activity and social connection contribute to positive mental health by reducing anxiety and depression levels, while increasing satisfaction and belongingness.
If you fall in love with the sport at this Give it a Try event, you can drop in for regular Monday evening play.
This event is Sunday, September 29 between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. If you would like more info about the event, or would like to register, please contact the recreation office at 604-947-2216. Although the event is free, pre-registration is recommended––you may also register online through bowencommunityrecreation.com/registernow or drop by and visit us in the Rec office.
We hope to see you there!
