GV Senior Games registration under way

Since 1984, the Green Valley Senior Games has established itself as one of Southern Arizona’s most popular athletic events.

Registration for the 24th annual edition began on Jan. 2, and event director Karen Rans said the applications have already started pouring in.

“We’re looking to make this year’s Green Valley Senior Games the biggest and best one yet,” Rans said.

The registration period lasts until Feb. 21.

Last year, 734 athletes took part in the festivities—a number that stands near the top in the event’s registration history.

With Green Valley’s population influx over the past couple years, Rans hopes to see the number approach 800 this year.

Potential athletes have the opportunity to compete in 33 different events, ranging from basketball to bocce to everything in between.

The kickoff extravaganza is scheduled for March 4 at West Center, with the social event—a formal “Special Senior Prom” featuring the Tom Patrick Quartet—taking place on March 7.

The games get going on March 5 with the pickleball opening round.

That afternoon, the GV Senior Games welcomes wallyball to the fold at Las Campanas. Wallyball is relatively new to Green Valley, but the sport has steadily increased in popularity.

Paul Migacz and JoAnn Jurries will serve as the coordinators.

Joining these newer events will be the Senior Games stand-bys—basketball, volleyball, billiards, golf (putting, skills challenge and 18-hole score), shuffleboard, cycling, bowling, tennis and swimming.

“The swimming is traditionally our most popular event,” Rans said. “Hundreds of people come out for that. We have some remarkable swimmers in this area.”

Cards will also figure heavily into the games, with bridge (duplicate and contract), cribbage, euchre, hearts, pinochle and Texas Hold ‘Em attracting dozens of competitors.

Croquet, darts, chess and horseshoes also return for the 24th annual edition.

While Rans and her staff burn the candle on both ends in order to get the games rolling, she said none of it would be possible without the tireless efforts of dozens of local volunteers.

“We need as much help as we can get,” Rans said.

Also back this year is the annual T-shirt design contest. Last year’s winner was Bob Kershaw.

The games will wrap up on March 27 with the traditional recognition breakfast at West Center, where all athletes, volunteers and sponsors will be given credit for their efforts. The results book will also be available that day.

For a full list of events, volunteer information and contact information for all of the coordinators, contact Rans at 625-3440 or visit www.gvrec.org.

nprevenas@gvnews.com | 547-9747