June 4, 2018 - Deputy Mayor Karl Bandemer and Parks and Recreation Director Steve McDaniel kicked off the 40th Annual Senior Games today with the ceremonial lighting of the torch at the Community Center. The Senior Games is open to adults 50 and older and over 450 participants are expected to play this year in locations all over Fort Wayne.
The cost to participate in each event is $1 for those who signed up by May 18, and $2 for each event after the early registration date. Registrations will still be accepted two business days prior to the event. Most events require little or no experience, and although some of the events are more strenuous, like pickleball or canoeing, there are many choices people of all physical abilities can participate in, such as card games, fishing, darts and billiards. More than 50 volunteers are needed to run and coordinate the Senior Games each year.
The Fort Wayne Parks & Recreation Department Community Center hosted the first annual Senior Games competition in 1979 to promote the benefits of remaining active and physically fit, and to encourage all adults over 50 to adopt a healthy, enjoyable lifestyle. Styled after the Olympics, the games offer competition in more than 30 physically and mentally challenging events such as archery, bocce, bowling, horseshoes, chip & putt, croquet, softball throw, table tennis and more. Seniors can test their talent and skill, while enjoying good company and making new friends. A free Health and Wellness Fair will also be available until 11:30am at the Community Center June 4.
Participants and individual event winners will be recognized at the 40th Anniversary Cookout and Awards event taking place at 6 pm, Friday, June 22 in Franke Park Pavilion #1. At 9:30 am June 2, participants are invited to bring their favorite fishing partner under the age of 50 to the Intergenerational Fishing Derby at Lakeside Park.
It’s not too late to join the fun! For more information regarding times and locations of events, please call the Community Center at 260-427-6460 or visit www.fortwayneparks.org and download the Senior Games brochure.