An Olympic program for senior citizens? Whoever thought of such a thing? Some fine people in Sanford, Florida did just that and held their third annual Golden Age Olympics in November, 1977.

On a vacation trip in that area early that year, this writer heard about their program. After collecting information through several visits and some correspondence, this question took shape: If Florida can do it, why not Illinois?

Result — On October 7, 8,9, 1977, such a program was held in Springfield, Illinois for men and women who were over 55 years of age as of September 30th. Entries totaled 135 from 52 communities. A list of 31 events was scheduled for the three days.

After contact with the Springfield Recreation Department and a favorable response, a report was made to Mrs. Josephine K. Oblinger, Director of the Illinois Department on Aging. Her reaction was enthusiastic because of the many benefits inherent in such a program for the elderly of Illinois. This was an opportunity for many people interested in sports and physical fitness to compete against others in the same age bracket. Also, friends, relatives, and the younger generation would be on hand for support. It would also be a strong motivating force for more elderly people to get in condition for the next Olympics or just to shape up.

A Planning Committee was formed and the project became a cooperative one between the Springfield Recreation Department and the Illinois Department on Aging (doA). Publicity was handled almost entirely by the DoA. They had some funds available to promote physical fitness among senior citizens.

Some of the money was used to cover the cost of all medals, jacket patches, certificates of participation, and watches for the four high-point winners. Jacket patches and certificates were given to all participants. Gold, silver, and bronze medals were awarded for each event when it was completed.

The Springfield Recreation Department assumed the responsibility of scheduling the events, securing facilities and equipment, corresponding with the competitors and selection of events chairmen. This work was most important in making the program go smoothly for all concerned.

Two competitive age groups were established as follows: 55-64 inclusive, and 65 and up. The same grouping is used by the Golden Age Olympics in Florida.

The program of events included: golf, 10-mile and spring bike race, trap shoot, horseshoes, table tennis, archery, 50 yard dash, 100, 220, 440, 880, 1 mile, 3 mile, shot put, discus throw, running and standing broad jump, high jump, bowling, tennis, racquet ball, rope skipping, basketball free throw, in swimming — 50 yard free style, back, breast, 200 and 1650 free, and 100 yard medley. No relay or team events were scheduled. Bowling was the most popular event for both sexes. Points were awarded on the basis of one for participation, 7 for first, 5 for second, and 3 for third.

The main item of publicity was an 8 1/2 x 11 four-page flyer sent to all the media in Illinois and to such agencies as the YWCA and the YMCA. A liability release form was also included. The need for top physical condition in order to compete in such a program was emphasized. No entry fees were charged. Special rates were granted for green fees, bowling, and trap shooting. All entries received an invitation to attend the Hospitality Hour the evening before the games were to start. Held in the Senior Citizen Center, the reception provided an opportunity to meet competitors, officials, and committee members. Information, schedules, map with location of facilities, list of churches and motels were distributed and Lt. Governor David C. O'Neil spoke at the reception.

Friday morning, the opening ceremony began with a group of high school cross-country runners who brought in the Olympic Torch from Athens, Illinois.

Officials rules were used for all events. Much of the success of the program was due to the experienced volunteer chairmen and their helpers who ran the events. The last event was held Sunday afternoon followed by a short closing ceremony. The high point winners were announced, but the awards were made at a celebration banquet held on October 29,1977. Many persons and agencies gave generously of their time and experience. That is what made the Senior Olympics of Illinois such a great success.

The evaluation sheets offered enthusiastic support for the next Olympics. Comments were made about the fine spirit of sportsmanshp that prevailed in all the events. Emphasis seemed to center on the point that here was activity that older adults needed not only for health reasons, but for the fun of participating in it.

Soon after the celebration banquet, the Planning Committee began meeting again to lay the groundwork for Olympic II. Since the project had been incorporated back in August as Senior Olympics, officers were elected and a Board of Directors selected. The writer was named president, Dr. Irwin Jarrett, vice-president, Mrs. Verna Satterfield, secretary-treasurer.

Illinois Parks and Recreation 28 September/October, 1978

At last year's convention, some members of the Illinois Park and Recreation Association learned much about this project. Thoughts developed about holding local competitions sponsored cooperatively by park districts, recreation departments, area agencies of the DoA, and private recreation agencies. Such promotions would obviously promote the general idea of physical fitness with competition in the games, if possible.

The Springfield Recreation Department is planning to hold a workshop for leaders of such local competitions. Overall plans will be reviewed touching on objectives, administration, organization, events, etc. A set of slides about Olympics I will be shown. These slides are available for showing with or without a speaker.

Those of us who have been developing and promoting these games feel that something very worthwhile has been started. The competitors all agree with us. To the professionals in this field, the benefits to the elderly, their communities, and the state should be obvious. With the general interest that is developing, the future for the Senior Olympics is most certainly a bright one.

Anyone interested in more information about any part of this project or the 1978 program which will be held Sept. 15-17, should contact the Springfield Recreation Department, 1415 North Grand Avenue, East, Springfield, Illinois 62702 - (217/789-2284).

Illinois Parks and Recreation 29 September/October, 1978