“Life Begins at 50 with Fitness and Gold!” This is what the Virginia Senior Games are all about as they enter their 39th year of promoting healthy lifestyles for Virginia residents! Presented annually by the Virginia Recreation and Park Society, the 2017 games, to be held May 10-13, are being hosted by Henrico County Recreation & Parks. Interested participants can register at www.virginiaseniorgames.org through April 15.
Virginia Senior Games strive to provide something for everyone 50 and better! From swimming to tennis, events are chosen to include the non-athletic as well as the athletic, to accommodate all skill levels, and to promote an atmosphere of competition and fun. The games attract more than 1,000 senior athletes who compete in Olympic-style events for Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals. This year’s events include Archery, Badminton, Basketball, Billiards, Bowling, Cycling, Golf, Horseshoes, Miniature Golf, Pickleball, Racquetball, Road Race, Shuffleboard, Softball, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Track and Field, and Volleyball.
The Virginia Senior Games is a qualifying competition for the National Senior Games, which take place every other year. VSG is also an open event, so that no scores or times are required for entry. Athletes can compete in multiple sports, and out-of-state sportspersons are welcome. Competition adheres to National Senior Games rules, and medals are awarded in each age category (5-year increments). Additionally, athletes and their guests are treated to an annual Athletes’ Party and Wellness Fair, based on a new festive theme each year and offering activities, musical entertainment, and snacks, all in keeping with a showcase for services and resources for healthy lifestyles in Virginia.
To learn more about Virginia Senior Games, visit www.virginiaseniorgames.org.
The Virginia Recreation and Park Society (VRPS) is a private, non-profit professional organization, founded in 1953. Its purpose is to unite all professionals, students, and interested lay persons engaged in the field of recreation, parks, and other leisure services in the Commonwealth of Virginia. VRPS is affiliated with the National Recreation and Park Association.