Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Talk about golden years!

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By DANA DUGAN
Express Staff Writer

Phyllis Stelma celebrates after winning a gold in the wheelchair race at the Senior Olympics 2008. Photo by

The golden years are sometimes associated grimly with aches and pains, but for a number of hardy seniors gold was the color of the medal they sought.

The Blaine County Senior Connection held its first Seniors Olympics on Friday, Aug. 8, in Roberta McKercher Park in Hailey to coincide with the Summer Olympics' opening in China

There were four events with eight to 12 participants per event, including the ever popular smokin' wheelchair race, the longest throw, Frisbee golf and the 25-meter race.

"It was hilarious," Senior Connection Executive Director Kim Coonis said. "I've never seen so much gray hair flying. We gave out inscribed medals and the winners wore them all day."

Marilyn Walker won the gold in the 25-meter race, with Glenn Stelma and Albert Neal finishing silver and bronze respectively.

The Longest Toss was made by Dan Marramore, followed by Albert Neal and Marilynn Walker. In Frisbee golf the winners were Hazel Mountain in first, Glenn Stelma placing second and July Kildare taking the bronze.

Phyllis Stelma pulled in the gold in her wheelchair with Pat Duggan coming in for the silver and Elva Kinkade taking the bronze. A special award went to Sue Valentine for traveling the shortest distance in her chair.

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Other special medals were given to Earl Beull for best cheerleading and Dorothy Ann Outz for trying the hardest.

"Earl kept everyone in stitches," Coonis said. "We couldn't let him leave without a medal. He kept spirits high."

Coonis said she expects far more participants next year and is also considering getting a team together to compete in Boise next year at a senior track and field event.