By KATHY FANDRE
Central Wisconsin Senior Olympic coordinator
In the mid 1960s, the National Recreation Association, now known as the National Recreation and Parks Association developed a program theme titled "Lifetime Sports." This theme supported the concept that emphasis should be placed on getting individuals involved in sports in which they could compete throughout their life span. As the Lifetime Sports concept developed across the country in the mid-1970s, middle-aged amateur athletes of the mid-1960s were becoming mature senior athletes.
Beginning in California in the early 1970s, the birth of a new athletic competition occurred. This competition was unique because it was limited to those athletes ages 55 and over. The Senior Games movement spread from California to many other states. As a result of this nationwide participation, a national competition was begun called U.S. National Senior Sports Classic, now called the National Senior Games. The first national competition was held in St. Louis in 1987 and attracted 2,500 athletes.
Senior Olympics in central Wisconsin began in 1984, with this year marking the 20th Anniversary of the event in our community. For 2004, the games are scheduled for Monday, May 24, through Thursday, May 27, in the greater Stevens Point/Plover area.
While the Olympic events are set up as competitive events, many of the participants join just for the fun of it. Seniors are a lot more active now than they ever have been. They're more aware of health and understand the importance of exercise. They just aren't ready to sit in a rocking chair and watch television. The Olympics give them a chance to get involved and have a lot of fun.
Social events, including an opening ceremony and banquet, are scheduled along with the sporting events. Competitions include bowling, miniature golf, 8-ball pool, bocceball, croquet, shuffleboard, horseshoes, golf and track and field events. Although 55 is the minimum age for participating, there is no maximum. Last year four people 87 years of age participated. Ribbons are awarded to men and women in four age divisions: 55 to 61, 62 to 69, 70 to 76, and 77 and over.
Participants come primarily from Stevens Point and the surrounding areas of Plover, Whiting, Hull and Linwood. Other communities represented include Almond, Amherst, Junction City and Rosholt. Participants also come from Marshfield, Merrill, Waupaca, Wautoma, Wausau and Wisconsin Rapids, as well as from other more distant locations.
An opening ceremony will kick off the event at Lincoln Center on Monday at 9 a.m., preceded by festive music provided by the Grenadiers German Band. Lynn Van Dien, a long time volunteer member of the Central Wisconsin Senior Olympic Committee, will act as the master of ceremonies.
Dr. George May will be the keynote speaker during the opening ceremony. He will provide words of wisdom to our anxious athletes as they prepare for the week of events. Special guests including government officials and sponsor representatives will round out the ceremony.
The oath: "I promise that I will participate in the Central Olympics in the true spirit of sportsmanship. The most important part of competing is in just being a participant. I shall follow the rules and procedures and do my best to be a credit to all central Wisconsin seniors" emphasizes good sportsmanship.
The Portage County Department on Aging coordinates the Central Wisconsin Senior Olympics with the help of a planning committee of dedicated volunteers who begin the process early in February. Area businesses, led by M&I Marshall & Ilsley Bank, underwrite most of the costs.
If you or someone you know would like to compete in any or all of the events, stop in at Lincoln Center, 1519 Water St., Stevens Point, and pick up registration materials or call 346-1401 for more information. Let the games begin!
2004 Central Wisconsin Senior Olympic Schedule
Monday, May 24
9 a.m. Opening Ceremony, Lincoln Center
10:30 a.m. 8-ball pool at Lincoln Center game room
1 p.m. Bowling at Point Bowl
5 p.m. Mini Golf at Backwoods Mini Golf - D&S Super Cones
Tuesday, May 25
9 a.m. Croquet and Bocce Ball - Mead Park
11 a.m. Horseshoes at Mead Park
1:30 p.m. Shuffleboard at Lincoln Center
Wednesday, May 26
9 a.m. Golf at Wisconsin River Golf Club
Thursday, May 27
9 a.m. Track and Field events at Goerke Field
6 p.m. Awards banquet at Blue Top Supper Club