Tennessee Senior Olympians won more medals and participated in greater numbers than athletes from any other state at the National Senior Games held June 2-15 in Birmingham.
In addition to winning a total of 655 gold, silver, and bronze medals, approximately 1,100 Tennessee athletes competed in the 2017 National Games. Tennesseans comprised more than 10 percent of the 10,500 senior athletes gathered from all over the country.
A list of Tennessee medalists and ribbon winners can be found at
http://tnseniorolympics.com/2017-national-senior-games.
The National Senior Games also reported multiple records broken by Tennessee athletes including Hollyce Kirkland, 98, of Sevierville ran for world record times in the women’s 95-99 400- and 800-meter races at 4:29:64 and 9:30:46 respectively.
She also earned an American record in the 200-meter race. In addition, an American Master Track Record was broken by Neringa Jakstiene, 54, of Memphis in women’s 50-54 triple jump. For a complete list of Tennessee record holders, click
here.
“These senior athletes are an inspiration to anyone leading or trying to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. We are incredibly proud of their national performance,” said Christine Dewbre, executive director of the Tennessee Senior Olympics.
"BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee is the presenting sponsor of the Tennessee Senior Olympics, and has supported the organization since 1981. The event encourages healthy lifestyles by offering a competitive and social outlet for seniors fifty and older," officials said.
For more information on the Tennessee Senior Olympics visit
www.tnseniorolympics.com.