The Colorado Senior Games have made their grand return after a long hiatus since 2018. For the very first time, these Olympic-style, multi-sport events are being held in Colorado Springs, also known as Olympic City, USA.
The Senior Games are a nationwide event, attracting more than 100,000 participants aged 50 and older, who compete in a variety of sports across the United States. The games provide an opportunity for athletes to stay active, compete, and connect with others.
A Special Event for the Community
Lauren De Marco of the Colorado Springs Sports Corp shared her excitement about hosting the event, emphasizing the significance of this event for the community. She expressed, “To be able to bring this event back, and partnering up with the YMCA of the Pikes Peak region, it means a lot. To not only the athletes and the volunteers and our sponsors, but to the community as a whole. To be able to help fill this void for our 50-plus athletes, I mean it’s incredible.”
The event not only caters to athletes but also brings together volunteers, sponsors, and the community, making it a special occasion for all involved.
Senior Athletes: Competing for Health and Camaraderie
For some participants, the Senior Games are all about camaraderie, staying healthy, and promoting well-being. Others, however, come with a more competitive spirit, eager to challenge themselves and earn recognition for their hard work. Clyde Anderson, a participant, shared his thoughts, saying, “I think it’s competitive. I think any activity that we get into is competitive. That’s the only way we enjoy it.”
Clyde and his wife Betsy Anderson are gearing up for the National Senior Games in Iowa, an event often referred to as the Senior Olympics, later this summer. The couple looks forward to competing in various sports, showcasing their athleticism and dedication.
A Story of Catching Up with Sports
For Betsy, participating in the Senior Games is a chance to experience the team sports she never had the opportunity to play as a young girl. “Well, as an older female, I didn’t get to play sports like in school when I was growing up. Girls couldn’t do that, so I’m catching up,” Betsy explained. “So I see it as a really cool activity for women who haven’t had the opportunity to play in a team sport.”
Betsy’s story highlights the importance of the Senior Games in providing opportunities for older generations to explore sports they may have missed out on during their youth, fostering a sense of empowerment and inclusivity.
Celebrating Lifelong Athletics
The Colorado Senior Games also celebrated some impressive athletes, including the eldest competitor, who was 90 years old. Christel Donley, at 90, took part in both the 50-meter dash and the javelin throw. Christel’s participation serves as an inspiration to many, proving that age is just a number when it comes to athletic competition.
“I’ve done this fairly all my life. If you want to compete, you have to keep going, and it’s rewarding because you feel happy that you can still run, jump, and throw, which is a privilege,” said Christel, embodying the spirit of lifelong sports participation.
The Colorado Senior Games are a beautiful reminder that it’s never too late to stay active, compete, and challenge yourself. Whether it’s for health, fun, or competition, these games provide a platform for senior athletes to showcase their abilities and inspire others to live life to the fullest. In Olympic City, USA, age truly is just a number.
