Grande Prairie competitors are responsible for nearly three quarters of the medals earned by Zone 8 at the 2015 Alberta 55 Plus Summer Games in Strathmore. In total, Swan City residents won 10 gold, 16 silver and 21 bronze medals at the event held every two years to encourage Albertans to take part in social and physical activities.
One of the top competitors from the Swan City was Mary-Helen Hopkins, who won four gold medals in swimming. She placed first in 65+ women’s 50 metre backstroke, breaststroke and freestyle, along with the 75 metre IM. She’s joined in the four medal ranks by Al Bromling, who earned gold in the 70+ men’s shot put and 3,000 metre run, as well as silver in discus and bronze in the 1,500 metre race.
Also among the local stand outs were Mary and Ron Hemmingway. Ron took home two bronze medals in photography and slow pitch, while Mary earned gold in cross-stitch and silver in needlework. Upping GP’s medal count is Karen Fimrite, who placed third in 70+ women’s discus, javelin and shot put.
Northwestern Alberta placed 6th overall at the games.