B.C. senior finds strength, inspiration from competitive swimming
Nearly 4,000 seniors athletes will compete in the 55 + B.C. Games which kick off in North Vancouver today. Lenora Gilchrist will be among them competing against other senior swimmers during the competition.
"It's something to work for all year… and just to be with other swimmers; we have a great time," she told CBC Radio's Chris Brown.
"I think you have to work out at least a couple times a week… and live a good life. You swim for your life actually."
The 78-year-old from North Vancouver has competed at the Olympics, the Pan American Games, and in the 1950s, the British Empire Games. She says despite her age, competition brings out the best in her.
"We always want to win, that's what we're aiming for. You practice and learn new techniques. I don't swim like I used to swim in those games."
Gilchrist says that while swimming is a weekly exercise for her, in the months leading up to the games, she ramps up her training.
"I swim lanes, and you pick up the speed a little bit when you're getting closer to the competition."
The 55+ B.C. Games also include sports such as ice hockey, darts, and bridge, and while all the competitors hope to do well, Gilchrist says the real joy of the competition is getting to travel to different communities and compete alongside friends.
"Every year when people get together wherever it is, you've made friends over the years and you know, it's fun. The people in wherever we're competing are really generous and treat us like royalty."
The 55+ Games are being held in North Vancouver and will run until Friday.
To hear the full interview, click the audio labelled: B.C. senior swimming strong at 78.
