The 55+ Summer Games scheduled for September 2020 in Kensington have been cancelled.
Kim Knight Picketts, president of the P.E.I. 55 Plus Games Society, and Rowan Caseley, Mayor Town of Kensington, made the announcement in a joint news release.
“Given the current information about COVID, the seemingly increased risk to seniors and the uncertain future about physical distancing, it would be irresponsible to bring this group together in close proximity in order to play these games,” said Knight Picketts.
Another concern was timing, as planning for the games needs to be happening now, including having a town administrative person to help with various aspects of the Games. But given the current COVID-19 climate, that isn't functionally possible.
“The initial group would meet fairly regularly, but you’d have to meet with your volunteers, your chairpersons and other volunteers and it could be up to 25 to 35 people at any one time meeting,” said Ivan Gallant, chairman for the Kensington Games.
The town has committed to hosting the P.E.I. 55+ Summer Games in September 2021, which the PEI 55+ Games BOD unanimously approved.
The P.E.I. 55+ Games serve as a qualifier for the Canada 55+ Games, which are held every two years. The 2020 national event has been cancelled, and Kamloops will host the Games in 2022.
