National Veterans Golden Ages Games Celebrate Fitness and Wellness Among Veterans
The National Veterans Golden Age Games, held in Salt Lake City from August 24 – 29, 2024, successfully brought together Veterans from across the country to compete in a series of athletic events, emphasizing the importance of fitness and camaraderie among older Americans.
The event featured 18 competitive events, including air pistol, archery, blind disc golf, and swimming, along with educational and wellness activities aimed at enhancing the quality of life for Veterans aged 55 and over. Ten athletes from Team Tampa will be competing.
The Games opened with ceremony in which participants from 46 states and the District of Columbia paraded with their teams, showcasing their spirit and determination. Attendees were then inspired and motivated by speeches from Veteran advocates and healthcare professionals maintaining the significance of maintaining physical and mental health in later life.
The Golden Age games include a series of competitions tailored to meet the diverse needs of over 800 participants, such as categories for ambulatory, wheelchair and visually impaired athletes. There are eight age categories starting at ages 55 to 59 and up to over 90 years old. Most will participate in the ambulatory division with 5.6% participating in the visually impaired division and 4.7% in the wheelchair division. Over a third of the athletes are new attendees, and 27.5% are Women Veterans. Two athletes have participated for over 21 years. The oldest competitor will be 94 years old.
“This is more than just a sports event; it's about proving that age is just a number,” said Geoff Hopkins, supervisory recreation therapist at JAHVH. “These games showcase the resilience and strength of our Veterans, no matter their age or physical capabilities.”
The National Veterans Golden Age Games' motto is "Fitness for Life." This motto reflects the commitment to promoting year-round fitness and wellness, not only to improve health but to also rally the Veteran community together.
Hopkins explained the value of this approach: “By focusing on fitness and wellness, we're ensuring that our Veterans can lead healthier, more connected lives. The support from VA clinicians and staff makes all the difference in achieving these goals.”
Through activities like air rifle, boccia, shuffleboard, horseshoes, Veterans have the opportunity to engage in friendly competition while also benefiting from the social and emotional connections formed with fellow Veterans.
“It’s inspiring to witness how our members show up for their teammates, whether they’ve known them for years or just met,” said Hallie Smith, JAHVH recreational therapist. “The games also provide a unique opportunity for our athletes to connect with Veterans from across the country, forging new bonds and strengthening a nationwide network of shared experience and mutual respect. For many, these games are a highlight that athletes eagerly anticipate all year long.”
To see the action National Veterans Golden Age Games opening night, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dkvqb_8Vk9c or to watch the Gold Rush for daily behind the scenes peeks at what’s happening in Salt Lake City, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5yldQu05LM