A life-long love of the outdoors places focus this month on a senior who is long in years but young at heart. Arnie Roosen began his association with the Volkssport community while on a four-year tour of duty with the Canadian Forces in Germany.

In the early 80s the burgeoning Volkssport movement saw Arnie attending the volksmarches wherever they were offered allowing him to see much of the country most tourists never get to see. Arnie hiked 1500 kms and collected close to 150 award mementos during that posting. Misfortune struck Arnie at only 42 years of age when he had to undergo a life-saving triple bypass resulting in limited duties with the military and a necessary tour of duty in Disneyland on the Rideau (NDHQ).

Tiring of the office routine Arnie came to retirement to enjoy the great, green outdoors, the sunshine and the fresh air while he walked and hiked the trails around Western Canada and the States. Arnie then decided to lend his expertise to help build Volkssport in Canada. Arnie, who has clocked 32000 kms since his vascular surgery, is a Past President of the Lahr, Germany and Peachland Volkssport Clubs; as well as the BC Volkssport Assn. He holds the title of Volkssport Builder (operating out of Peachland) as part of the Canadian Volkssport Federation.

A respectful well-done goes to Arnie Roosen of Peachland who continues to enjoy good health and the fitness benefits that only an active, participative lifestyle can provide. Keep up the good work Arnie you are a credit to your community and the Canadian Forces.

Jerry Flaman    This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it