Mayor kicks off Senior Games downtown

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) – Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry and Parks and Recreation Director Al Moll kicked off the 34th Annual Senior Games Monday with the ceremonial lighting of the torch at Courthouse Green.

"We are proud to host an event that helps residents over 50 stay fit and healthy while having fun with their peers," said Mayor Tom Henry. "From our award-winning parks to our 68-mile trail network, Fort Wayne provides many opportunities for people of all ages to stay active. Our Senior Games is just another way our city inspires residents to get involved and stay healthy."

The Senior Games were created in 1978 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 20 physically and mentally challenging events such as bocce, bowling, pickleball, cornhole, softball throw, billiards, putting, table tennis and more. Seniors can test their talent and skill, while enjoying good company and making new friends.

The various Senior Game events have been scheduled over a three week period, June 4 – 21 and over 300 seniors are expected to participate.

“The Community Center continues to find fun new ways to help our 50 and over population stay healthy and engaged,” said Director Moll. “It isn’t only the physical aspect of the Senior Games that’s important, but also the social aspect. Studies have shown that people with a large circle of friends live longer.”

Participants and individual event winners will be recognized at an awards banquet on Thursday, June 21, 6pm at the Community Center on Main Street. Awards include door prizes and gift cards for event winners.

It’s not too late to join the fun! For more information regarding times and locations of events, please call the Community Center at 427-6460 or visit www.fortwayneparks.org .