Gill Gracie brought home three gold medals following a national track and field competition in Quebec. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

athletics

Senior strikes gold at national track and field competition in Quebec

Sep 11, 2024 | 2:27 PM

Air Ronge’s Gill Gracie earned three gold medals at the Canada 55+ Games, which were held Aug. 27 to 30 in Quebec City.

Gracie, who has been competing in senior track and field for a decade, was awarded gold in javelin (13.34 metres), shotput (7.3 m) and discus (18.89 m). She traveled to a provincial competition in North Battleford in June in order to qualify for the event.

“This was with the Saskatchewan Senior Fitness Association,” Gracie explained.

“It’s a province wide thing, it just doesn’t seem to happen up here much. Every second year, they have a provincial competition and then every second year they have a national competition. You go to provincials and, if you do well, you get to go to nationals.”

The Canada 55+ Games included more than 2,000 participants competing in 20 events. Saskatchewan placed fourth at the Games with 37 gold, 25 silver and 17 bronze for a total of 79 points. Overall, Ontario took first, Quebec finished second and Alberta came in at third.

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Although track and field for seniors is uncommon in Northern Saskatchewan, Gracie noted she enjoys taking part because it keeps her active. She would like to practice a couple of times per month, but added she wasn’t able to do that this year because she was busy with other endeavors and because it is difficult to find places to train.

“Wherever I can find an open space where there isn’t a lot of kids around who want to have a go because I’m not taking that liability,” Gracie said.

“If I go too far out, then there’s bears to worry about and all that. My training is kind of spotty. There are no coaches here, so I go to Saskatoon once and a while and train there to get an idea of technique and stuff.”

Gracie had a memorable time traveling to Quebec City as it had been her first time traveling there in decades. She made a holiday out of it and was able to do some sightseeing and participate in some tours.

Gracie would like to see other seniors get involved with track and field. She said those who might be interested can find more information on the Saskatchewan Senior Fitness Association website.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com