Sunday's closing ceremonies for the Alberta 55 Plus Winter Games paid tribute to the countless volunteers that made the St. Albert competition the best of the best.
"These games do not happen without the passion and the commitment of our volunteers who put in hundreds and hundreds of hours over the last three years to make these games happen," board chair Sandra Fenton said to an enthusiastic round of applause at Performance Arena. "Our heartfelt thanks for making these games a fantastic weekend. Without you, these games would not have been the success that they were."
Lieut.-Gov. Donald S. Ethell also recognized the "700-plus volunteers who generously offered up their time, talent and energy so these games could run smoothly."
He noted a strong volunteer spirit is the lifeblood of Alberta's communities.
"Your willingness to roll up your sleeves and get involved is truly what makes this province such a wonderful place to live."
The multi-sport and cultural event brought together 1,061 participants from eight zones in the province.
"This has been a fantastic weekend that has been a very joyous time for all of us, whether you are a participant, volunteer or sponsor," Fenton said.
The games provide Albertans 55 years of age or older an opportunity to test their minds and brawn.
"I congratulate you on your commitment to the principles of active living and good sportsmanship," Ethell said. "Regardless of where you placed, I trust you had a top notch experience during these games and you enjoyed your events, performed to your utmost and perhaps made some friends along the way."
Ethell also praised the host committee "for everything you've done in making these four days an outstanding experience for everyone. Well done!"
The retired colonel was impressed with how the city has embraced active living. He believes in promoting lifelong fitness and engaged living for people of all ages, "which includes all of us who are well seasoned."
Award winners
Ethell presented zone 8 (Peace region) with the Lieutenant Governor's Cup. It acknowledges the zone that showed the greatest improvement from the last games, which were held in 2009 in Lethbridge.
Zone 5, which includes St. Albert and area, received the President's Spirit of Participation Award, honouring the zone that exemplifies the true spirit of participation of the games, both in and out of competition.
The big winner of the games' Stanley Cup — the Alberta 55 Plus Zone Championship Trophy for the most points accumulated in the 13 sports — was zone 6 (Edmonton).
