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COLUMBUS–The 2023 Polk County Senior Games and SilverArts kicked off on April 29 with an incredible opening ceremony, held at Stearns Park. The event was attended by senior athletes, artists, and spectators from across the county. 

The ceremony began with a parade of athletes and artists, showcasing their talents and skills. The participants range in age from 50 to 95+. 

Following the parade, the ceremony continued with the lighting of the torch, which was carried by Kyle West, an athlete in the Senior Games. The torch was then used to light the cauldron, officially marking the start of the games.

The Senior Games will feature a variety of sports, including bocce, bowling, shuffleboard, and track and field. Meanwhile, the SilverArts competition will feature categories such as painting, sculpture, photography, and performing arts.

“We’re thrilled to welcome so many talented senior athletes and artists to this year’s Senior Games and Silverarts,” said Julie Jolley, Polk County Senior Games’ Coordinator. “These competitions are a celebration of the lifelong pursuit of health, wellness, and creativity, and we’re honored to coordinate this special event for Polk County.”

North Carolina Senior Games began in 1983 with a vision to create a year-round health promotion and wellness education program for adults 55 years of age and better (the age is now 50+).  The Senior Games’ mission is truly grassroots in North Carolina and has placed the State far beyond other states with a structure that is participant-driven. Polk County started its first local Senior Games in 2020.

The Senior Games and Silverarts will run throughout May and early June, with participants competing for medals and prizes in their respective categories. The event is open to the public, and spectators are encouraged to attend and cheer on the competitors.

For more information on the Senior Games and SilverArts, including a schedule of events, please visit ncseniorgames.org

 

Submitted by Julie Jolley