VA Eastern Oklahoma Veterans victorious at the National Veteran Golden Age Games

Veterans bring home medals

This year, Tulsa Veterans overcame personal challenges, earned medals and strengthened their sense of community.

Charles Smiles of Wagoner, Oklahoma, a VA Peer Support Specialist, coach, and participant, who served in the U.S. Army, won two silver medals—one in the 100-meter run and another in the basketball free throw competition—and a bronze in the 50-meter run, all in the 70-75 age group. 

“The approach I use to train Veteran athletes is encouragement, practice, training, example setting, and instilling confidence in them,” said Smiles, reflecting on the team’s training. 

Paul Clark Jr. from Ontario, California, who served in the U.S. Army, won a silver medal in pickleball and a bronze in the 1500-meter speed walk in the 55-59 age group. Tracy Moore, from Haskell, Oklahoma, served in the U.S. Army and won gold in horseshoes in the same age group.  

Sandra Motley, from Louisville, Kentucky, who also served in the U.S. Army, earned a fourth-place ribbon in horseshoes in the 65-69 age group. Maria Mingus, from Sullivan, Missouri, served in the U.S. Army, received a sixth-place ribbon in air rifle in the 55-59 age group. 

Support from the Psychosocial Rehabilitation and Recovery Center 

Founded in 1985, the National Veterans Golden Age Games serves Veterans ages 55 and older. Through its “Fitness for Life” motto, the Golden Age Games offers sports competitions and health education sessions to demonstrate the value of sports, wellness, and fitness in assisting Veterans with living an active and healthy lifestyle. 

All VA Eastern Colorado Veterans who participated in the NVGAG are part of the Psychosocial Rehabilitation and Recovery Center (PRRC) at Ernest Childers Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic.  

The PRRC is a program designed for Veterans with severe and persistent mental health conditions. It helps them manage symptoms and build better lives through therapy and community involvement. 

This year’s games saw the highest participation from VA Eastern Oklahoma, including a record number of female Veterans. 

“It was an amazing experience for me as a psychologist to be able to walk that journey beside them and to witness them overcome so many barriers.,” said Dr. Alyssa Rippy, PRRC program coordinator, who attended the event to provide support. “I worked with many of them therapeutically for several years, and to see them face their fears and travel, get on an airplane, be around large groups of people, make friends and feel like they were a part of something bigger, was one of the most fulfilling things I have done in my career.” 

Training as a team, overcoming as a family 

Training for the Golden Age Games was not just about getting fit; it was about building community. Smiles, along with Heath Wells and Odell Smith, worked closely with Veterans in the group to prepare for events like boccia, horseshoes and cornhole. One Veteran even practiced pickleball five times a week with his wife. 

“We help Veterans understand that winning is great, but just be willing to compete, have fun and socialize,” said Smiles. 

Physical and mental benefits 

Participating in the Golden Age Games provided physical and mental benefits for the Veterans.  

Sue, a U.S. Army Veteran, said, “Being able to participate in such challenges has given me a whole new outlook on life. I no longer feel old and over the hill. The games inspire me to stay healthy and positive.” 

Exercise can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. The event allowed these Veterans to push themselves safely while feeling supported. 

Paul, a retired Army Veteran, spoke about the camaraderie he rediscovered.  

“After retiring, I found it hard to feel like I belonged anywhere. But the games brought that back. I was in a place that supported my mental health and helped me build networks with other Veterans across the country.” 

Looking ahead 

The Tulsa team proudly reflects on their achievements at the 2024 Golden Age Games and is actively preparing for 2025. 

Veterans who receive care with VA Eastern Oklahoma Health Care System who want to learn more about the National Veteran Golden Age Games can call Heath Wells at 918-384-4615.  

Jesus Flores is a writer and editor on the VISN 19 Creative Task Force and a Marine Corps Veteran