Game On: Pasadena Senior Games Registration Opens March 24 For Athletes 50-100

Pull out your running shoes, swimsuit, or pickleball racket as registration opens Monday, March 24, for the Pasadena Senior Games — the Olympics-style competition for adults aged 50 to 100 years old, entering its 32nd year.

The six-week competition, running from May 17 to June 29 across Pasadena area venues, offers competitors the chance to participate in 18 different sporting events, with no previous experience required.

Last year’s games drew 1,100 participants spanning five decades in age, reflecting a growing trend of active aging that organizers expect to continue this year with another record-breaking turnout.

“I’d say it’s never too late to be a champion. You can make the rest of your life the best of your life,” said Sarah Sneider, who competes in track and field and powerlifting events.

Sneider, whose late husband Harry was among the founders, trains year-round with bench press and weight lifting sessions twice weekly, supplemented by cardio training on a mini trampoline.

Organizers group competitors in five-year age brackets to ensure fair competition, with medals awarded in each category.

“The biggest part is being able to participate with someone of your age group within four to five years, not having to worry about bowling against someone that’s 10, 20 or even 30 years younger than you,” said Danny Searcy, who competes in bowling and table tennis.

Founded in 1992 by Cynthia Rosedale, Olympic pole vaulter Pete Clentzos, and world champion powerlifter Harry Sneider, the Pasadena Senior Games were originally called the Senior Olympics before evolving into today’s respected tradition.

The organizers, quoting CDC research, said physical activity provides health benefits for seniors, including improved physical, emotional, and social health scores and decreased risk of hospitalization.

Participants emphasize the social connections formed through the games, which have created friendships and expanded activity networks for many seniors in the community.

“I have a network of local friends now that I do things regularly with not only sporting activities, but other events, concerts, other special events,” said Lorrie Zuczek, who plays basketball in the games. “It just made me feel like a kid again. It’s just wonderful. I guess my life is full now.”

The competition also serves as a qualifier for the National Senior Games in Des Moines, Iowa, scheduled for July 24 to August 4.

“My most memorable moment is just to see people of all races, creeds and colors come together for one task to enjoy themselves,” Searcy said, noting the camaraderie that transcends backgrounds. “There’s no difference when we are playing sports and then being seniors, there’s no difference. Everybody’s there to have fun and support each other and rally around each other.”

“Just come on out and play. Just give it a shot no matter what your skill level is, just come on out, give it a shot,” Zuczek advised those considering joining for the first time.

Sneider added, “You don’t stop playing games when you get old. You get old because you stop playing games. The senior games keep us young.”

Registration is fee-based. To register, visit www.pasadenaseniorcenter.org and click on Activities & Events, then Senior Games.

Those who prefer not to compete may volunteer for positions such as registering athletes, timing, scoring, or manning water stations. Call (626) 685-6755 or email sports@pasadenaseniorcenter.org for volunteering opportunities.