The competition was fierce Thursday at the Eden Older Adult Center where over 75 Bronx seniors competed in the first ever “Senior Olympics” hosted by the Jewish Association Serving the Aging (JASA).
As the opening ceremony began, the athletes filed out into the gymnasium under their country flags, proudly representing cultures from all over the world. The ceremony wrapped with a big dance number that showcased the athletes’ speed, coordination and flexibility.
Senior athletes competed in events like pickleball, pool, horseshoes, 100-meter dash and a free throw basketball competition. Competing not only for medals, but for bragging rights, the stakes were high.
JASA, a non-profit dedicated to promoting aging with a purpose and providing autonomy for older New Yorkers, hosted the event at one of its 17 older-adult centers. The centers, which are located across the five boroughs, provide meals, community and cultural activities, exercise and other special events like the “Senior Olympics”.
In the end, medals were awarded to all the smiling winners who stood atop a podium, waving flags and pompoms to cheering fans.
