Tennessee seniors enjoy healthy competition

Posted: Tuesday, March 13, 2012 8:00 pm

ON COVER — Obion County senior citizens are featured on the cover of the application for the 2012 Northwest Tennessee Senior Olympics after winning a contest at last year’s event.

Senior athletes of all ages and skill levels across the state are already gearing up for the 2012 Tennessee Senior Olympics.
Area seniors ages 50 and older are invited to showcase their athletic abilities and share in some friendly competition at the Northwest District Senior Olympics.
Individuals will compete within five-year age groups, starting at age 50. Participants who are 49 years old are eligible to participate in the district and state games as long as they turn 50 before the end of 2012.
The schedule includes bowling on April 23 at Southlane in Union City; swimming on April 24 at the University of Tennessee at Martin; shuffleboard on April 26-27 at Eddie Cox Senior Center in Union City; golf on April 27 at The Tennessean Golf Club in Springville; track and field events May 4 at Dyersburg High School; table tennis and horseshoes on May 11 at Sharon Senior Center; and the closing ceremony on May 24 at Eddie Cox Senior Center.
All participants in each event at the district level will advance to the state competition July 13-19 in Williamson County.
“The games are designed to promote camaraderie and teamwork among fellow senior athletes, all while emphasizing the fact that exercise is important at any age,” said Christine Dewbre, executive director of the Tennessee Senior Olympics.
BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, presenting sponsor and a long-time supporter of the Tennessee Senior Olympics, helped establish the games in 1981. Now entering their 32nd year, the Tennessee Senior Olympics founders and sponsors are still steadfastly dedicated to promoting healthy and active lifestyles among seniors.
According to Dr. Inga Himelright, chief medical officer for BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, the games help immensely to motivate and encourage the adaptation of an active lifestyle.
“An active lifestyle for seniors means a better quality of life,” said Himelright. “Staying fit and participating with other area seniors in these games is a step in the right direction.”
Joining BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee as sponsors of the Northwest District games are Northwest Tennessee Development District, Area Agency on Aging and Disability, West Tennessee Healthcare and Walgreens.
The deadline for District Senior Olympics registration is March 30. For information or an application, call Jeana Mills at 885-1246, email her at jeana.mills@nwtdd.org or visit the event website www.tnseniorolympics.com.

Published in The Messenger 3.13.12