It seems the more we travel up and down the valley the more we learn about seniors and the more we see how really active some seniors are. We were perhaps a trifle elitist in our views and opinions about just what constituted active sports. We certainly weren't nearly as aware, when we started writing this column as we have since become, that what constitutes active sport is in the eye of the beholder. As active as some seniors are in team competitive sport we have reached the conclusion that competitive sport teams aren't nearly as popular nor as participative as remaining active through the art and science of dance. (Not only that guys but in this activity the ladies are present).

Although we have written on Dance As Sport in previous columns it is only now that we realize just how popular this activity has become and the various forms in which it is practiced and enjoyed. There is Dancersize, Line Dancing, Pattern Dancing, Square Dancing, Old-Time Dancing, Ballroom Dancing, Tap Dancing and a myriad other forms. The Okanagan Valley with its burgeoning senior population is rendering dance as one popular 'in demand and in activity'. There is a renaissance of dance going on and just maybe you will want to get involved. Whether you decide to participate in dancing as a leisure activity or become more serious and competitive one will want to examine the Senior Centres activities schedules located here in The Seniors Choice.

It matters not the form that the activity take as long as dancing continues long into the waning years. The ladies will accept nothing less than a properly tuned and fit companion, who has the required knowledge and skill to glide her around the dance floor and; while showing her off, letting the others know how it can and should be done.

We see that the very formal 'DanceSport Festival' is in the planning and organization stages for this year and again promises to be a popular event for participants as well as spectators. Perhaps in future years the organizers will incorporate a less formal Senior Oldtimers division in which we seniors can strut our stuff with the less sophisticated but no less intricate and demanding old-time dancing.

More information about Dancing can be found here in The Seniors Choice, in your Community Recreation Flyers and in other media. Many classes are being offered in the major Seniors Centres on a continuous basis. Many dance groups are looking for additional members and participants. Why not just give them a call or drop in to see if the group and activity is a fit for you and your partner. You never know, because 'strangers are simply friends we haven't yet met'!

(Ladies; would you have space on your dance card for Me?)

2006-05     Jerry Flaman     This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it