Competitors this year achieved their goals, and were cheered on by family, friends and loved ones.
About 35 events took place involving 950 Texan seniors in this year’s games, and organizers are expecting more next year.
“Next year Texan seniors can qualify in Temple to make the Nationals to be held in San Francisco in 2009,” Kevin Beavers, recreation superintendent, Temple Parks and Leisure, said.
414 gold medals were awarded 229 silver and 134 bronze before final competitions Sunday morning.
“At every meet the numbers keep growing,” Lillie Doss, 82, of Austin said.
No truer words than Lillie’s motto can be said - “Just finishing makes you a winner.” Over the last nine days Temple was loaded with winners.
Five Texans were inducted into the Texas State Senior Games Hall of Fame at an inductee banquet, at the Mayborn Convention Center on Saturday night.
This year’s competition introduced two new events, the football throw and spelling bee.
Nick Sanders, 50, of Lubbock competed in the 50 and 100 meter dash, shot-put, javelin, discuss and high jump, was the youngest competitor, while Mildred Stapleton, 93, of Temple who competed in the race walking event was the eldest.
“It’s been tiring but we are happy with the participation and how smoothly it went,” Beavers said.
