(Washington, DC) Every year, the DC Golden Olympics provides the opportunity for local senior citizens to demonstrate their physical prowess, qualify for the national Senior Olympic Games, or just simply have fun with others in their age group while improving their health.  Preparation for this year’s Golden Olympics, which will be held on May 11-14, will be coupled with a new year-round physical wellness initiative geared specifically toward District seniors.

For the first time in its history, the Senior Services Branch of DPR’s Specialty Programs Division will be designating facility spaces and times for local seniors to prepare for the event this spring.  The effort is part of the agency’s broader mission to encourage the District’s older population to pursue regular exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle.  Each site will have a senior staff member present during the days and times when the facilities are set aside for seniors.  

The Golden Olympics, open to all District seniors ages 50 years and over, provides participants with the opportunity to qualify for the national games, which is held every odd year.  Next year’s national event will be held from June 3-18 at various locations in Pittsburgh, including the campuses of University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University.  Those wishing to enroll as new competitors in this year’s local games may call (202) 282-0748 for more information.