Over 200 Elderly Join 22nd Residential Sports Gathering in Andorra

More than 200 elderly residents, volunteers, and professionals gathered at the Prat del Roure sports complex in Escaldes-Engordany on Saturday for the 22nd Residential Sports Gathering, drawing participants from eight facilities across Andorra, Alt Urgell, and Berguedà, including the Creu Roja.

The event featured 126 residents engaging in adapted physical and recreational activities designed to promote health, break daily routines, and strengthen cross-border ties. Around 70 volunteers and staff supported the morning programme, which began at 8:30am with arrivals followed by an Olympic-style parade of the eight groups, set to a gospel choir performance.

In the multipurpose hall, participants tackled inclusive challenges such as circuits of varying difficulty, treadmill exercises, races in conventional and electric wheelchairs, and precision games including skittles, brisca, triana, tic-tac-toe, rings, dominoes, chess, adapted basketball, and scavenger hunts.

Social Affairs Minister Trini Marín opened proceedings, emphasising the gathering's broader value. She noted that residents prepare year-round for these tailored events and described the day as fostering lasting friendships across Andorra and Alt Urgell, beyond mere competition. "This event goes further than sport," she said, adding that it culminates in a shared rice lunch to build community spirit.

Launched in 2001, the initiative paused briefly during the Covid-19 pandemic, reaching its 22nd edition after 25 years overall. It rotates annually between Andorra and La Seu d'Urgell, with next year's edition set for the Catalan town. Organisers honoured the founders during the day, acknowledging the role of public bodies and sector experts in sustaining it.

The morning gave way to a communal lunch, followed by an afternoon ceremony with medals and trophies in a festive close.