Getting older doesn't have to mean not getting out.
On Wednesday, more than 90 residents of Warren and Forest counties age 55 and older registered to prove just that.
Approximately 105 participants, spectators and volunteers were at Betts Park for the 16th annual Senior Games. Participants competed in more than a dozen events or just took time to enjoy the day and socialize.
Article Photos
Photo by Jacob Perryman
A toss up
Harvey Cartwright and Mike Servesko took time to throw a few beanbags at the cornhole event during the 16th annual Senior Games on Wednesday at Betts Park.
"They don't necessarily have to play the games," said Susan Himes, director of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program of Warren/Forest counties. "Some people are just here for lunch and to socialize."
The games opened at 9 a.m. with registration followed by opening ceremonies at 9:30, then it was time for the games to begin. Seniors could participate in mile and half-mile walks, horseshoes, a softball toss, a cornhole toss, a frisbee toss, goofy golf, golf chipping, darts, jarts, croquet, a ring toss and table shuffleboard all while enjoying a clear, sunny day at the park.
Seniors rounded out the day with lunch, music and an awards ceremony.
Turnout for the event was high.
"It's the most people we've had in probably five or six years," Himes said.
The event is organized by a senior games committee including Betty Jo Pearson and Farley Wright of Experience Inc., Himes and Jody Gardner of RSVP, Ann Higgins and Lynda Baxter of the Allegheny Community Center, Leslie Fleming of the Youth Volunteer Corps, Sherry Servesko of the Sheffield Hospitality Center, and Barb Ives.
"We hold it every year to promote healthy lifestyles," Himes said. "It helps to encourage socialization."