By Tamas Mondovics
From swimming to cycling, senior residents throughout Hillsborough County are now gearing up to take part in the annual Senior Games, scheduled for this fall.
The three-week event is celebrating its 36th season anniversary as organizers are now receiving registration through Friday, September 9.
The competition is to begin with a continental breakfast on Monday, September 26 and will run through Thursday, October 13.
According to county officials and event organizers, the annual event draws hundreds of participants, 50 years and older, who compete in a wide variety of activities, including powerlifting, cycling, golf, pickleball, swimming, tennis, track and field, table tennis, billiards, bowling, bean bag toss, dominoes, darts, baking, hobby show, and the talent showcase.
Hosted by the Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department, Hillsborough County Family and Aging Services, City of Tampa Recreation Department, and Temple Terrace Leisure Services, officials are pleased to see a great turnout of athletes, especially those that set a fine example of healthy living by staying active, while representing both ends of the age-spectrum.
“The Senior Games offer a number of activities for socializing and competing while having fun with your peers,’’ said Debbie Robinson with Parks and Recreation, which organizes the games.
The event is said to encourage people of all ages to stay healthy and live longer by exercising.
While the minimum age limit is 50, officials said that contestants often are well into their 90s, such as Edith Traina, 94, who was able to deadlift 140 lbs. to win her division in the 2015 Senior Games. Traina is expected to compete again this year, county officials said.
Registration is $30 and includes two tickets to the Celebration Luncheon at All People’s Life Center located at 6105 E. Sligh Ave. in Tampa on Friday, October 14.
To see the full schedule of activities and to register for 2016 Senior Games, visit hcflgov.net/seniorgames or call 744-5595 ext. 38206.
