The Huntsman Senior World Games are a true celebration of active aging. Every year, senior athletes from across the globe come together to compete, form new connections, and demonstrate that age is no barrier to living life to the fullest. In this blog, we’ll explore the history of the games, their significance, and how they continue to inspire older adults to stay active, engaged, and passionate about fitness.
A Global Stage for Senior Athletes to Compete, Connect, and Thrive
The Huntsman Senior World Games is an international multi-sport event tailored specifically for athletes aged 50 and older. Founded in 1987 in St. George, Utah, the event has since become the largest annual multi-sport competition for seniors worldwide. According to the National Institute on Aging, staying physically active is essential for maintaining health, independence, and overall well-being as we age. The games offer a platform for older adults to engage in friendly competition while benefiting from the physical and mental perks of an active lifestyle.
With over 11,000 participants from more than 30 countries, the Huntsman Senior World Games has evolved into a premier event for senior athletes. The competition features a wide variety of sports, including track and field, pickleball, and more, fostering a strong sense of community and motivation among participants.
A Wide Range of Sports to Keep You Moving
One of the most exciting aspects of the Huntsman Senior World Games is the incredible variety of sports on offer. Athletes can choose from over 30 different sports, ensuring there’s something for everyone, no matter their interest or skill level. Here are just a few:
- Track and Field – A true test of endurance, speed, and strength.
- Pickleball – One of the fastest-growing sports, especially popular among seniors.
- Swimming – Competitive yet accessible for many fitness levels.
- Cycling – Ideal for those who love endurance challenges.
- Tennis, Basketball, and Softball – Timeless sports that keep seniors active and engaged.
Health Benefits: More Than Just Medals
Competing in the Huntsman Senior World Games is about much more than collecting medals—it’s about embracing a lifestyle that emphasizes health, fitness, and social engagement. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that staying active as we age can:
- Reduce the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis.
- Boost mental health, helping to lower stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Enhance mobility and independence, making it easier to prevent falls and injuries.
- Promote social connections, which are crucial for emotional well-being and longevity.
Overcoming Challenges and Making it Work
Though the benefits are clear, some seniors may be hesitant to join due to concerns like injuries, skill level, or costs. Here’s how to address these worries:
- Fear of Injury – By focusing on proper training, warm-ups, and participating in age-appropriate divisions, the risk of injury is minimized.
- Lack of Experience – Many events offer beginner-friendly divisions, making it easy for newcomers to ease into competition.
- Travel and Costs – Several organizations and sponsors provide financial resources and assistance for those who need support.
Inspiring Stories from the Huntsman World Senior Games
Eva Sorensen, a remarkable 101-year-old athlete from Alexandria, Virginia, has been competing in the Huntsman World Senior Games for 15 years. In 2024, she claimed gold medals in both bowling and shuffleboard, triumphing over athletes half her age. Her daughter, Peg Moyer, proudly shared that Eva’s 169-point bowling game even outshone the rest of the family, showcasing her extraordinary skill. Eva credits her longevity and vitality to staying active and engaged, and she’s determined to keep competing for many more years—her goal? To reach 110 years!
Brigham Young University (BYU) students have played an essential role in the Games by offering health screenings to senior athletes. In 2020, 92 students volunteered over 4,600 hours, conducting more than 2,500 health assessments for participants from 30 countries. These screenings have been invaluable in detecting serious health concerns like glaucoma, diabetes, and high blood pressure, potentially saving lives and encouraging seniors to stay healthy and active.
Graham Johnston, a South African-born swimmer, made waves at the Huntsman World Senior Games. After taking a 16-year break from competitive swimming, Johnston returned in his 40s and went on to break several world records in Masters Swimming. His dedication and success at the Games serve as an inspiration to senior athletes worldwide.
Conclusion: Embrace the Power of Active Aging
The Huntsman Senior World Games showcase the incredible benefits of active aging, proving that fitness and competition have no age limit. From building a strong sense of community to boosting physical and mental well-being, this event continues to inspire thousands of seniors around the globe. Whether you’re looking to stay fit, challenge yourself, or make new connections, participating in events like these is a fantastic way to maintain health and form lasting friendships.