Forestport Pickleball Players Shine at Empire State Senior Games: Regular readers of Healthy Aging are well-versed in the benefits of exercise, which we won’t reiterate here. Instead, we emphasize the importance of exercise, proper nutrition, and regular medical check-ups as essential pillars of healthy aging.
Consistency in exercise remains a challenge for many. Despite countless reasons not to exercise, one common excuse is the lack of enjoyment (think swimming laps or jogging on a track or treadmill).Enter pickleball. Among racket sports like tennis, squash, ping-pong, and badminton, pickleball enthusiasts often assert it’s the most enjoyable. While this claim may be subjective, certain aspects of pickleball, such as its appeal and accessibility, are indisputable.
Forestport Pickleball Team at Empire State Senior Games
Forestport’s pickleball enthusiasts showcased their talent and determination at the prestigious Empire State Senior Games, held from June 12-14 at SUNY Cortland. Led by Jennifer Scales Kanclerz, the team of nine participants demonstrated exceptional skill across various categories.
Anne Hughes of Forestport, partnered with Brian Thompson from Otter Lake, distinguished themselves with a commendable fourth-place finish in the fiercely competitive Mixed Doubles event, competing within their age bracket. Similarly, Brian Thompson, alongside John Balio of Barneveld, secured another fourth-place spot in their respective age divisions.
Buffie Race, representing Alder Creek, emerged as a standout performer, securing a gold medal in Women’s Doubles and adding a silver in Women’s Singles to her accolades.
The Forestport contingent savored every moment of the event, relishing the camaraderie and competitive spirit. Already focused on the future, they are eagerly preparing for next year’s competition. Hughes and Thompson have also qualified for the prestigious National Senior Games in Des Moines, Iowa, showcasing their dedication and skill on a national stage.
About: Empire State Senior Games
The Empire State Senior Games stands as a premier sports competition and recreational program designed exclusively for individuals aged 50 and above. It serves as a vibrant platform that not only encourages physical fitness but also fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among seniors.
The Empire State Senior Games represent a structured sports competition and leisure program tailored for individuals aged 50 and above, aiming to:
- Offer recreational opportunities.
- Promote fitness as a lifelong pursuit.
- Enhance the positive perception of seniors.
- Blend sports and games with fitness, enjoyment, and camaraderie.
- Advocate for genuine competition in its most authentic form.
Participants engage in a diverse array of sports and games, blending athleticism with enjoyment and social interaction. The event promotes the enduring vitality of seniors, celebrating their active lifestyles and highlighting the benefits of lifelong fitness activities.
Open to all who meet the age requirement of 50 years or older, the games uphold the spirit of true competition, emphasizing sportsmanship and the joy of participation.
News in Brief: Forestport Pickleball Players Shine at Empire State Senior Games
Forestport’s pickleball team shone brightly at the Empire State Senior Games, held at SUNY Cortland from June 12-14. Led by Jennifer Scales Kanclerz, nine participants showcased their skills with Anne Hughes and Brian Thompson impressing in Mixed Doubles, securing fourth place in their age category. Buffie Race excelled with a gold in Women’s Doubles and a silver in Women’s Singles. The team relished the camaraderie and competition, already preparing for future events. Hughes and Thompson’s qualification for the National Senior Games in Des Moines underscores their dedication. The Empire State Senior Games celebrate active aging through sports, fitness, and community engagement.
Also Read: Surprising Health Benefits of Pickleball
