The Tucker County Senior Centers sent 10 participants to the 15th annual Olympics at Potomac State College in Keyser, WV June 7 through 10. The Olympians had an exciting time participating in many events and they performed very well.
The Les Clifford Performing Arts Trophy was won by Meg and Jim Buddingh. Meg also was awarded 11 medals including six gold, three silver, and two bronze. Jim also did very well. He was awarded a trophy as the overall top male athlete because of his 13 medals. Jim received five gold, five silver, and three bronze medals. Caroline Pell received the trophy for the overall top female athlete. She received 12 medals including seven gold, three silver, and two bronze.
Other Tucker County Olympians included: Linda Bonner with five medals: three gold, one silver, and one bronze; Mary Frances Good had two medals with a silver and a bronze. Mary Mullenax received four medals—two gold, one silver and one bronze, Diana Duerson received five medals,three gold, one silver and ond bronze and Peggy Arnold received two silver medal. There were two first time participants for Tucker County. Shirley Cassidy claimed eight medals including two gold, three silver, and three bronze and Barbara McClung got three medals including one gold, one silver, and one bronze.
The first day included competition in Baked goods & Crafts along with a Spelling Bee and Bingo. After the judging was complete, many of the Baked goods and crafts were auctioned off to help defray the costs of the Olympics. The day concluded with a pizza party and a dance.
Day two began with the field events on an extremely windy day. Events included Horseshoes, Disc Golf putting, Softball throw, Archery, Bocce ball roll, Lacrosse shooting, a 20 yard dash, Football throw and golf chipping. After lunch the Olympians continued with indoor events including Corn Hole, Standing long jump, Soccer kick, Whiffle Ball toss, and a bean bag toss. The day ended with a picnic and entertainment by a Southern Gospel Group.
After a good night sleep, Day three began with more of a mental challenge. The participants could play Poker, Phase 10 or Scrabble. These events included some fierce competition. Participants could also play a bocce ball game.
After lunch they moved in to the gymnasium. Here the Olympians participated in Basketball Free throw, Basketball Hot Shot, Golf putting, ladder ball, ping pong and billiards. The day was concluded with a talent show which included dance, readings, songs, instrumentals and comedy. There was a martial arts demonstration and a crazy legs competition during the intermissions.
The final day started at the bowling alley. Again there was some great competition among the athletes. All of the Olympians were then treated to a wonderful banquet where the medals and trophies were awarded.
The Olympics are a great time of fun and fellowship for seniors of all ages. This year the oldest participant was a 99 years old female who participated in all events and was awarded 5 medals. So next year you too can participate. Just contact the Senior Center and tell them you want to go to the Olympics.
