50+ Lifestyles

Quad City Summer Games

A Celebration of Competition and Community

By Rhonda Elsbury

The Quad City Summer Games are just around the corner and you don’t want to miss them!  The Games, sponsored by the Quad Cities Senior Olympics, is an exciting two-week competition that brings together athletes, fitness enthusiasts, artists, and musicians for a series of spirited competitions and camaraderie. Scheduled to take place from May 17 to May 31, the games offer participants an opportunity to showcase their skills and challenge themselves across more than 50 categories of sports, challenges, and arts. Gold, Silver and Bronze medals are awarded in each category.

Cycling participants.

With such a wide range of events, the Summer Games ensure that there is something for everyone, regardless of experience. Maybe you’re into traditional athletic competitions such as track and field, swimming, and cycling, providing opportunities to showcase endurance and strength based. Or maybe you like sports like basketball, tennis, and golf, which allow participants to test their precision and agility.

Performing arts.

Additionally, you can compete in art, music, or mentally strategic games to showcase your talents, creativity and problem-solving skills. Do you have a short story or poem you’ve written in the last year? Taken a great photo in your travels? Painted scenery or still objects? Enter them in our competitions and share your talents with your community! And possibly win a medal, too!

Choral group performing at Ridgecrest in the Performing Arts category.

The Summer Games foster community connections and motivates adults to maintain active lifestyles. Participants and spectators at the games have the chance to reunite with old friends while forming new relationships and celebrating being active, regardless of age.  The Games have a slightly new name this year, formerly called the Quad Cities Senior Olympics, and new age categories, but many of the locations and categories are the same.  Events occur all throughout the Quad Cities at various venues and culminate at the Headquarters at Augustana College on Saturday, May 31.  You’ll find us in the Ken Anderson Athletic Club for the closing ceremonies and picnic.

Bean bag toss at CASI.

Whether competing for medals, personal achievement, or simply the love of the game, participants in the Quad Cities Summer Games can expect an unforgettable experience filled with energy, excitement, and sportsmanship. This annual event continues to be a testament to the enduring spirit of competition and the importance of lifelong fitness, in mind and body.  Come join us and let’s cheer each other on.   www.qcsogo.org