Norfolk, VA. - The 30th Annual Senior Olympic games wrapped up Wednesday afternoon at Norfolk State University. Senior citizens, ages 50 and up, competed and won medals in several sporting events, from volleyball and basketball free throws to walking.
"It's better than medicine," said 84-year-old Thelma Best.
Getting around isn't as easy as it used to be for Best, but she doesn't let it get her down. In fact, she won a silver medal in the walking competition this year, something she's won medals in before over the past 25 years in the Senior Games.
"It took me 18 minutes to walk the mile. And today, it may take me two weeks!" said Best.
Maria Barner, co-chair of the Norfolk Senior Games, says there were 30 events for folks to participate in this year, all to help encourage seniors to stay healthy and active.
"You'd be amazed at some of the athleticism that these seniors bring to the table. It's awesome. It just makes me want to be like them when I grow up," said Barner.
"I like to be out. I like to be walking. To me, it’s good for your body. To me, it’s good for aches and pains," said Best.
This is the first year the Senior Olympic Games were held at Norfolk State University. Previously, the event was held at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek - Fort Story. In 2012, more than 900 athletes participated in the events.
