The Hull and East Riding care homes games will take place on Thursday, 10 July at Beverley Leisure Centre when 16 teams from East Riding and Hull care homes will compete in a boccia bowling tournament, a Paralympic sport similar to bowls.
On the day, participants will also be able to have a go at new age curling, (similar to normal curling, but adapted to be played in sports halls) ten pin bowling and target throwing.
Gill Davison, senior community recreation officer for East Riding of Yorkshire Council said:
“The aim is to try and get more people in care homes taking part in physical activity. The games are an ideal way of encouraging people to be more active and to bring out that little bit of competitive spirit.”
“It also increases social interaction between residents and carers and it is a fun way to increase participation. We had some very positive feedback from people who have taken part in the past.”
The games will be officially opened at 1.30pm by the chairman of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Councillor Pat O’Neil. Jean “Bee Lady” Bishop, who has raised thousands of pounds for Age UK, will present the winning team with a trophy.
Councillor Richard Harrap, portfolio holder for adult and carer services, said:
“This is a fantastic event and shows you are never too old to compete in sporting events. I hope the care homes are able to continue running a variety of activities for their residents even when this competition has ended.”
In the run up to this event, care homes from the East Riding are taking part in seven area finals at East Riding leisure centres with the winning team making it through to the event on 10 July.
Councillor Richard Burton, portfolio holder for civic wellbeing and culture, added:
“I am very much looking forward to the games. The teams have been practising hard at their local leisure centres and Beverley Leisure Centre is all set to host the tournament.”
