Polk County has a long-standing relationship with the Senior Games and that relationship will continue this year. Registration for the Senior Games is now open and runs through March 6.
The North Carolina Senior Games began in 1983 as a way to create a year-round health promotion and wellness program for adults 50 and better.
“What started with just three local games has grown into more than 50 Local Senior Games programs now serving all 100 counties across our state,” Julie Tremblay, Polk County’s Activities and Senior Games Coordinator, told the Polk County Commissioners recently. “North Carolina has truly become a model for the nation because of its grassroots, participant-driven structure. Senior Games has always been built from the bottom up — what happens in our local communities is what matters most. Here in Polk County, our Local Senior Games are about much more than competition.”
For locals who get involved in Senior Games, it is about encouraging healthy lifestyles, combating isolation, building friendships, and celebrating lifelong talents.
Participants compete in traditional athletic events like pickleball, track and field, swimming, and more. Qualifiers from our local games have the opportunity to advance to the North Carolina Senior Games State Finals each fall. From there, every two years, winners can even qualify for the National Senior Games.
“But at its heart, what makes Senior Games special is what happens right here at home,” Tremblay said, “neighbors cheering for neighbors, first-time participants trying something new, and lifelong residents reconnecting through shared experiences.”
Along with the athletic events, Polk County residents can also participate in SilverArts, which was created in 1986 to give seniors a meaningful outlet for creative expression. It recognizes that athletes and artists share something very important: discipline, dedication, and a sense of accomplishment.
“Through visual arts, literary arts, performing arts, heritage arts, and even cheerleading, we celebrate the whole person — not just physical strength, but creativity and spirit as well,” Tremblay said.
Along with participating in the events, volunteers are also needed. Individuals can volunteer to assist with participant registration, scorekeeping, line judging for pickleball, event setup and take-down, assisting with the SilverArts show, and general event support
Tremblay said they are also looking to grow our ambassador team. These are individuals who are passionate about Senior Games, willing to help speak at events, participate in competitions, attend State Finals, and assist with planning and outreach.
“Senior Games is truly a community effort. It thrives because of partnerships — from sponsors, volunteers, participants, and local leadership,” she said.
Registration for Senior Games is open thru March 6. SilverArts registration will be accepted through April 8, however they must turn in their main form by March 6 if they want a shirt.
Anyone 50 years old+ can register. They must be a NC resident for at least 3 consecutive months in the year though, if they would like to go to State Finals in the Fall.
The Opening Ceremonies will be March 21. Anyone can come and cheer on participants, whether they are participating in the games or not. Sports events will be taking place at the end of March thru the end of April. The SilverArts showcase is April 10th, judging on the 9th.
When we invest in programs like Senior Games, we are investing in preventative health, social connection, and quality of life for our aging population,” Tremblay said. “And in Polk County, that matters. I invite anyone who is 50 and better to consider registering before March 6, and I encourage anyone who wants to make a difference in the lives of our seniors to consider volunteering.”