Laughter, teamwork and friendly competition filled Kendal Leisure Centre yesterday as older adults from across Westmorland and Furness came together for the second annual Golden Age Games.

Organised by GLL, the charitable social enterprise that operates Better leisure centres in the region, the event welcomed 75 participants age between 55-years and 90-years from Kendal, Penrith and Ulverston leisure centres for a full day of activities designed to promote movement, connection and wellbeing in later life.

Building on the success of last year’s inaugural games, the 2026 event featured a programme of accessible sporting challenges and team activities. During the morning, participants competed in boccia, curling, pickleball and table tennis tournaments before taking part in a series of school sports day style challenges in the afternoon including egg pong, basketball, corn hole, beanbag balance relay, skittles, newspaper shuffle and a foam javelin competition.

During the closing ceremony, Kendal Leisure Centre was crowned champion of the Golden Age Games 2026, after notching up a grand total of 2075 points. Ulverston came a close second trailing by only 16 points with a total of 2059 and Penrith Leisure Centre secured third place with 1651 points.

Medals were awarded to individuals for their outstanding contribution during the sports tournaments including the Wobbly Spoon Award (egg and spoon race), Master of the Spear (Javelin) and Steady as a Rock (beanbag balance).

80-year old Diana Holmes has been a member at Kendal Leisure Centre for 30-years. She attends regular exercise classes and has been part of the Escape Pain programme. Diana explained: “The day was all about unskilled fun and competition between the three leisure centres. We were cheered on by the energy and good nature of the staff. Without the dedication of staff, these fun events wouldn't happen so thank you for your efforts. And we’re thrilled that the practice we’ve been doing at our Tuesday senior sessions paid off."

Danielle Vipond Shields, Better Health and Communities Manager at Westmorland and Furness, said: “The Golden Age Games are all about bringing people together, building confidence and showing that staying active can be enjoyable at any age. The energy and enthusiasm throughout the day were incredible, and it was fantastic to see so many people taking part, supporting one another and having fun.”

Katie Gatt, Age Friendly Coordinator South Lakeland, added: “Age friendly initiatives aim to create communities where older people are valued, included, and supported to live active, healthy and fulfilling lives. Events like the Golden Age Games bring this vision to life by offering a fun and welcoming space for older adults to take part in physical activity, try something new, and enjoy themselves. As well as promoting health and wellbeing, the Games provide a great opportunity to meet new people, build friendships and reduce social isolation. By encouraging connection and participation, the event is a fantastic example of how age friendly principles can be put into practice locally, celebrating ageing in a positive and inclusive way.”

The initiative is fronted by GLL in partnership with Age Friendly South Lakeland – the charity that brings together people and organisations to make South Lakeland a great place to grow older.

Better leisure centres across Westmorland and Furness continue to offer a range of activities and sessions aimed at helping older adults stay active, connected and engaged within their local communities.