Royce with YMCA Fitness Coordinator Krista Nott
The Cobourg YMCA is inviting the community to celebrate active aging with 9-Oh Let’s Go, a week-long fitness and fundraising event starting April 7.
Inspired by longtime member Royce McCracken’s 90th birthday, the event showcases how staying active can enhance both physical and mental well-being at any age.
“Royce McCracken’s story embodies the YMCA’s mission to add life to years, not just years to life,” says Eunice Kirkpatrick, President and CEO of YMCA Northumberland. “Through programs like this, we promote health, inclusivity, and a strong sense of community.”
Royce, who began his fitness journey in 2005, credits exercise with keeping him engaged and energetic. “Staying active scares away depression. I refuse to live and act my age,” he says. To mark his milestone, he has created a series of challenges encouraging others to step outside their comfort zones.
McCracken tells us about the benefits of keeping fit for him.
The idea for the event was sparked by McCracken’s 90th birthday and his own list of personal fitness challenges.
Participants can spin the Royce’s Choice challenge wheel, join special fitness classes, or try a new activity like squash or cycling.
McCracken tells us squash has become one of his favourite activities – a sport he tried for the first time just a couple of years ago.
Each challenge has a suggested donation of $20 per activity or $10 if preferred, with all proceeds supporting the YMCA Strong Communities Campaign. The campaign helps fund essential community programs, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent access to health and wellness services.
Private donors, including Royce himself, have already pledged $2,500 toward the group’s $9,000 goal. YMCA Northumberland is seeking a match sponsor to help maximize community impact.
“This is about more than fitness-it’s about supporting one another and proving that it’s never too late to stay active,” says Kirkpatrick.
For more details, visit ymcanrt.org/90-tribute.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
