Tampa Bay Gears Up to Host 40th Annual National Veterans Golden Age Games

By Joey Johnston

With the perfect backdrop of soaring American patriotism as the nation prepares for its 250th birthday, Tampa is preparing for the 40th Annual National Veterans Golden Age Games, an Olympic-style event that will be held June 27-July 2 at the Tampa Convention Center and other venues throughout the community.

Military veterans from age 55 through 90-and-over will compete in events such as archery, badminton, basketball, bowling, cycling, horseshoes, pickleball, swimming, table tennis, and track. Athletes will be classified into three categories: ambulatory, visually impaired, and wheelchair. Approximately 1,800 veterans will participate in the Games.

“It underscores and highlights the value that sports, adaptive sports, and health and wellness play in the lives of older adults,’’ said Brittany Hook, Director of the Golden Age Games. “Our veterans are often introduced to sports as part of their rehabilitation plan. They train year-round, then get a chance through these Golden Age Games to compete against veterans from across the nation.

“The real thrill is they get to do it with a large community of veterans cheering them on, supporting each other, and growing a network of support. It’s very inspirational. And the really exciting thing is we have our event this year in Tampa, where we believe it’s going to be spectacular with the amazing venues, the great volunteers, and all the experiences our veterans can enjoy.’’

Jason Aughey, the Tampa Bay Sports Commission’s senior vice president of sports tourism, said he has fond memories of Tampa hosting high-profile military events such as the National Veterans Wheelchair Games (2013) and the Department of Defense Warrior Games (2019).

Aughey said he expects the Golden Age Games’ 40th edition to be the best ever, with record attendance and significant economic impact throughout the Tampa Bay area. He said Tampa Bay has rallied around the event, with Tampa’s James A. Haley Veterans Hospital providing great support and organization. With the presence of MacDill Air Force Base and Central Command, Tampa’s military history and heritage make for an appropriate setting.

“I’ve been involved with sporting events in Tampa for 21 years, and we’re talking about a Super Bowl against the backdrop of the pandemic, the college football national-title game and so many different NCAA championship events,’’ Aughey said. “But the military special events, where we’re honoring our veterans, are among the most moving and memorable events I’ve ever been a part of. The military is part of the fabric of our Tampa Bay community. To honor these veterans for their commitment and sacrifice is very humbling. To help deliver an event that recognizes them and their competitive spirit, it’s very, very special.’’

Hook said she encourages Tampa Bay community members to support the various events. For spectators, it can be a life-changing experience.

“Around every corner you turn, there’s a veteran with a story,’’ Hook said. “It might be something they have overcome. It could be a goal they’ve been working on for years. They’re using sports, including adaptive sports, to help them achieve that goal. Hearing the way sports have positively impacted their lives is probably my favorite part of the event. So keep your ears and eyes open. You’re going to see and feel some things that you’ll never forget.’’

Opening Ceremonies, including the parade of athletes, will be held on June 27 at the Tampa Convention Center beginning at 7 p.m.

“The Opening Ceremony is an incredible way to start the week,’’ Hook said. “We’ll be welcoming veterans from all across the country and maybe a few territories that have not participated before. Veterans from each state will carry a flag and a sign representing their state. When those flags come up the aisle, and the veterans from that state jump up and cheer, it shows you the kind of spirit they’re bringing to this event.

“I love the hype and excitement that the veterans bring to the courts, the fields, the pools, and the corn-hole boards. It’s the camaraderie and excitement that come with competing. It might be watching a veteran accomplish something they never thought they could. Breaking through those barriers and just seeing the human spirit of achievement, those are the moments that stick with me. I can’t wait to see it all again.’’

Aughey can’t wait, either. Tampa was supposed to host the Golden Age Games in 2020, but those plans were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I think Tampa will shine in a much better way because of our recent renovations and upgrades, plus the new hotel inventory,’’ Aughey said. “We feel like our community is always ready to put on a good show, but this one is really special. It’s a way to celebrate our nation’s heroes and give back. It’s a way for people to experience the Games, hear people’s stories, and honor what these veterans have done in serving our country. We are honored to be the host community, and we want the 40th Golden Age Games to be the best ever in every way possible.’’

For more information:

Website: https://department.va.gov/veteran-sports/national-veterans-golden-age-games/
Volunteer Registration: https://40goldenagegames.my-trs.com/
Event Schedule: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/406764384/