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A game plan for seniors
By SUSAN THURSTON © St. Petersburg Times, published October 8, 2000 Like many working parents, Midge Machado didn't have much time for such things as sports and dancing. Her family and full-time real estate job consumed her days. All that changed when her four children grew up and she cut back her hours. Finally, she could do what she wanted to do. For the 53-year-old from Town 'N Country that means taking part in recreational events such as the Tampa Bay Senior Games. They keep her busy and happy. By the end, she says her cheeks hurt from laughing. Machado is among 450 people participating in this year's competition, which runs through Oct. 13 at various locations, mostly in Temple Terrace. Seniors from across Hillsborough County come to flex their muscles and have a good time. The games cater to everyone from athletes to amateurs. There are physical events, including swimming, running and golfing, and others for the weaker at heart, including pinochle, billiards and dominoes. Line dancing and talent competitions add entertainment. Players and organizers agree the games aren't just about winning. They are about making friends and sharing new experiences. "It gives us the opportunity to do things we always dreamed about, but never had a chance to do," said Edith Murway-Traina, 79, of Town 'N Country. "It beats sitting home looking at the boob tube." The games began in 1980 to promote healthy living among area seniors. The original games focused on more strenuous events, but have evolved to include passive competitions. "It serves as a lot more than an athletic event," said Sandy Fiallo, special programs supervisor for the city of Tampa, which helps put on the games. "At the end they are hugging and kissing. They have a wonderful time." Paul Zolinsky enjoys the games so much he hasn't missed one in 20 years. The 82-year-old loves the people and the thrill of victory. "It keeps me young," he said. "It keeps me fit." Participants compete based on age. Many are in their mid 60s to mid 70s, although organizers want to attract more 50-somethings who will stick with the games for years to come. At 53, Machado is one of the youngest in the group. She's always amazed by the energy of some of the players. After all, some are old enough to be her mother. "When we're rehearsing, I'm the first one to sit down and say, "I'm tired. I need a break,' " she said with a laugh. Machado entered nearly a dozen events, including the group talent show and line dancing, which top her list. She and her friends at the Town 'N Country Recreation Center have been practicing for weeks. "It gets serious," she says. Others are purely for fun, such as the billiards and miniature golf contests. Before Wednesday's pool competition, she hadn't picked up a cue since last year's games and couldn't care less if she won or lost. She just wanted to play a few rounds with her friend, Marty Bradley of Valrico. Machado lost, but had a ball anyway. They laughed when they missed and cheered when they sunk one. "Now what's not to love about the Senior Games?" she said after a ball went in unexpectedly. "You've got this magic happening." - Susan Thurston can be reached at (813) 226-3463 or thurston@sptimes.com.
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From the Times |
