Competition is golden

Four-time medalist Gertie Charles took a deep breath Friday morning as she let the bean bag leave her hand and glide through the air toward the target.

Charles, who is 83, is among more than 300 seniors competing this month in the Southwest Louisiana District Senior Games at McNeese State University. The games opened Friday morning with bean bag baseball in the school’s recreational complex and will conclude with track on Saturday, March 30.

“I’m excited about it, I really am,” said Charles, who is part of the 10-member “Young at Heart” group who meets at the Pryce/Miller Recreation Center every Monday, Wednesday and Friday to practice bean bag baseball. “It gives me something to do and I really enjoy this game.”

Charles — who has medaled in washer pitch, bean bag baseball and walking during previous district games — grinned from ear to ear after her turn and high-fived teammates as she walked back to her seat.

Southwest Louisiana District Senior Games Director Angela Jouett said each year’s opening ceremonies ultimately end up being a “day of hugs” for her.

“I get to know them and love on them,” she said. “I can’t believe I get to be part of this. It fills my heart.”

Jouett said the Senior Games — now in its 28th year locally — offers those over 50 a chance to compete in events such as softball throw, track races, walks, horseshoes, bean bag baseball, archery, swimming, table tennis, bowling and more. The games allow seniors to meet new people, try new events and stay active.

“We want to promote healthy living,” Jouett said. “It’s all about healthy living.”

Catherine Holden, who will turn 92 on April 12, will be competing Tuesday in swimming.

“When my children were small, I didn’t swim at all,” she said. “I swim three days a week now. I don’t drive anymore, but I do swim.”

Holden said there are no other competitors in her age category so “she’s a shoo-in.”

“I’ll compete in three races — the 50-meter freestyle and the 50-meter and 100-meter backstroke — and I’m assured three golds,” she said with a laugh.

Holden — who was a Senior Olympian in 2003 — has competed in the Southwest Louisiana District Senior Games for the past 19 years.

“I’ve swam three days a week during that time, but I’m starting to fight it now, especially the freestyle,” she admitted. “With the backstroke I can go forever. I enjoy it, it’s my pleasure and it’s my exercise. I look forward to it.”

Day 2 of the Senior Games will start at 8:30 a.m. with washer pitch, followed by basketball free throw, bait casting, swimming, accuracy throws, horseshoes, dominoes, table tennis, bolo golf and spelling at the McNeese Recreational Complex. Billards will start at 1 p.m. at Frosty Factory.

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For the complete roster of activities, dates and times, visit www.cppj.net/Home/Components/News/News/3391.