They came, they saw, they competed. But most of all, they had fun.
We're talking about the 103 senior citizens who attended last week's Mineral County Senior Olympics at Potomac State College.
Over the course of the four-day competition, now in its seventh year, smiles were the order of every day, laughter and good cheer marked every score card, and every competitor walked away a winner.
Senior citizens throughout the region should take note of the unique opportunity afforded by this close-to-home event. While other senior olympics focus exclusively on athletic prowess, the Mineral County games also offer socially oriented competitions, so that in addition to basketball toss, bowling and archery, there's also bingo, poker and even a spelling bee. And while the seniors dig out every dash, aim for every bull's eye and growl over every near-miss, the competition without fail is good natured and friendly.
Senior centers from Bedford to Petersburg, Winchester to Oakland, should be empty the second week in June, as their members migrate to Keyser for this annual event. As one competitor noted, the games are a refreshing change of pace, a chance to make new friends, try new things.
More than just encouraging seniors to attend next year's event, we also applaud the Mineral County Office of Aging and Family Services and its director, Scott Mallery, for organizing and hosting the Olympics. It was not by chance that the event went off without a hitch, but rather through hard work and preparation. Partnering with Mallery in that regard was Potomac State College, which provides a first-class venue not only for the competition, but also for lodging and dining.
Just as critical to the success of the Senior Olympics, however, were the numerous volunteers who helped stage the games. Whether dealing cards or measuring long-jumps, helpers were on hand to guide seniors through the dozens of events that make up the Olympics.
Some events are special for what they do. Some events are special for the people who do them. The Mineral County Senior Olympics earn the gold medal in both regards.
We're already looking forward to 2009!