Asheville Reporter

The Asheville-Buncombe Senior Games and SilverArts are set to return, offering a platform for individuals aged 50 and above to engage in sports and arts. The event, which aims to promote friendship and wellness, will commence with online registration on February 8 at ncseniorgames.org. Participants are required to pay a $10 fee.

Colt Miller, the Athletic Coordinator for Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) and local Senior Games contact, emphasized the importance of active aging. "Living healthy, active, and creative lives while aging strengthens individuals and the Asheville community as a whole," he stated. He further noted that although many participants advance to state and national competitions, the primary focus is not on winning but on showcasing local talent. "We want to promote health and well-being while inspiring people in the prime of life to keep thriving."

The event encourages newcomers to try new activities regardless of age. Many participants discover new sports in their later years, finding it transformative. Free weekly clinics will be held at West Asheville Park every Tuesday until March 18 from 10 am-12 pm.

The games include various sports such as bocce, bowling, golf, track and field events, cycling, swimming races, billiards, badminton, cornhole, horseshoes, pickleball, basketball shooting contests, shuffleboard, and tennis. Age categories start at 50 years old with five-year intervals.

SilverArts offers categories in Heritage Arts like quilting and woodworking; Visual Arts including painting and photography; Performing Arts such as dance and vocal performances; Literary Arts featuring poetry and essays; along with Cheerleading. Art pieces will be displayed at Pack Memorial Library.

Spectators are welcome at all events. A schedule can be printed or picked up at any APR community center. The games are hosted by APR alongside Black Mountain Parks & Recreation, Buncombe County Parks & Recreation, and Henderson County Parks & Recreation.

Key dates include:

- Registration: February 8-March 3

- Opening Ceremonies: April 5

- Various sporting events throughout April

- SilverArts Gallery Opening Reception: April 25

- Closing Ceremonies: May 17

For more information or inquiries about the event schedule or participation details contact Colt Miller at (828) 707-2376 or cmiller@ashevillenc.gov.

The Asheville-Buncombe Senior Games is one of North Carolina's officially sanctioned senior Olympic programs out of 53 local games across the state.