Cumbrians aged 60 and over invited to Carlisle sports day

The inaugural Better Club Games, a multi-sport event, is set to take place at The Sands Centre in Carlisle this September.

Organised by GLL, the charitable social enterprise that operates Better leisure centres in Cumbria, the event is being delivered in partnership with Cumberland Council, Age UK, Sellafield, and Active Cumbria.

Chloe Nixon, community sports manager at The Sands Centre, said: “This is a fantastic initiative designed to keep our beloved seniors active, foster new friendships, and improve their social, mental and physical wellbeing.

“This event allows us to celebrate the sporting talent amongst our older members who regularly attend our wide range of tailored sessions, while demonstrating the benefits that regular exercise and an active lifestyle can bring.

“It will be a race to the finish as we pit contestants from Cumberland against each other in a diverse range of competitive activities.”

Participants from 11 Better leisure centres across the region will compete in activities including badminton, pickleball, water polo, carpet bowls, rowing, table tennis, and a danceathon.

The day will end with an awards ceremony honouring winners in each discipline.

Veteran members who have taken part in senior sessions since they launched in 2023 have shared their enthusiasm for the event.

John Lightowler said: “Joining the Better Senior sessions has been a game-changer, literally.

“The idea of an inter-centre competition is an inspiration.

“Pickleball, table tennis, and water polo, amongst other activities, have given me a reason to get out of the house and just have a laugh without realising you are exercising and keeping the joints moving.

“Meeting like-minded people from other areas of the county is a great idea and there is nothing wrong with friendly rivalry.

“More than just sports, these activities have given me a wonderful community of friends who cheer each other on.

“Staying active has never been this fun.”

Julie Farrey said: “I am looking forward to the club games as it allows us to meet others who are interested in sport in older age.

“We have such fun together enjoying various activities.

“We have new members joining all the time with different abilities.

“We have all made great friendships that would not have happened if it was not for our club.

“To share this with others and to get to know more people and exchange stories will be great.

“It’s all about fun, laughter, and the ability to enjoy exercise with good friends.”

Councillor Anne Quilter, executive member for vibrant and healthy places at Cumberland Council, said the project highlights the value of partnership working.

Cllr Quilter said: “This is set to be a great event and one that demonstrates all our partners’ commitment to health and wellbeing.

“We want to provide inclusive leisure facilities for all ages and abilities – keeping Cumberland on the move.

“Best of luck to all the competitors.”

The Better Club Games is part of a nationwide programme developed by GLL to fill the gap in large-scale sporting events for older adults.

The initiative aims to promote ‘active ageing’ and highlight the capabilities of older people through sport.

Better leisure centres across Cumbria offer weekly senior sessions, including zumba, chair yoga, walking football, netball, aqua aerobics, and social gatherings.

Discounted membership is available for anyone aged 66 and over, providing access to facilities and instructor-led classes.

Earlier this year, The Sands Centre was named a finalist in the Cumbria Sports Awards for its senior activity programmes.