Golden Age Games Athletes: They All Have a Story

They have come from 40 different states. Some are on wheels, while others can use their legs. Many have the vision to compete, but they cannot see. They are from all branches of the U.S. Military, and they love their country.

 

They also love camaraderie and competition. That has drawn them to the 40th annual National Veterans Golden Age Games, an event with 1,200 athletes that runs through Thursday in Tampa.

 

The primary venue is the Tampa Convention Center, but events are held throughout the area. Military veterans ages 55 through 90-and-over will compete in events such as archery, badminton, basketball, bowling, cycling, horseshoes, pickleball, swimming, table tennis, and track. Athletes are classified into three categories — ambulatory, visually impaired and wheelchair.

 

They all have a story.

 

Mario McPherson, Sr., U.S. Army Wheel/Track Repairman (2-Year Participant, Bowling, Cornhole, Table Tennis, Boccia and Air Pistol) — “I’m just happy to be part of a team and look forward to seeing some old friends and making some new ones.’’

 

Java Ingram, a three-time Emmy Award-nominated television personality, was the emcee for Saturday night’s Opening Ceremony.

 

She was taken by the participants' spirit.

 

“The energy in this room is fantastic,’’ Ingram said. “Florida attracts people from all over the world every single year. Florida is known as the Sunshine State, but not even the Florida sun can outshine the sense of pride of the men and women who are in this room here tonight.’’

 

Susanne Johnson, U.S. Air Force Aircraft Mechanic (2-Year Participant, Pickleball, Boccia, Bowling, Air Rifle, Swimming) — “The excitement of competing against other veterans and cheering each other on. Reminiscing about the past with veterans who have shared the same experiences. Knowing that you are not alone in these experiences.’’

 

Tanya James Foster, chaplain of Tampa’s James A. Haley VA Hospital, sees veterans each day as part of her job. She relished the opportunity to give the invocation at Saturday night’s Opening Ceremonies.

 

“I know that many of you have traveled long distances to be here, not just physically, but mentally, emotionally and spiritually,’’ Foster said. “We know that we will see your glory. But even more importantly, I want you to know that individuals like myself and others, we need to hear your story.’’

 

Lenny McNair, U.S. Army Combat Communications Chief (12-Year Participant, Cycling, Boccia, Air Rifle, Cornhole and Bowling) — “The struggle to win and the agony of losing an activity gives me hope for the next Games. These are the things I look forward to each year. I get older and must stay the course to benefit from the Games.’’

 

Brittany Hook, the fourth-year director of the Golden Age Games, said two years of planning went into the Tampa event. She spoke to a few veterans who arrived in town early, and they all were amazed at how the event has grown.

 

“How cool is it that 40 years ago, a group of VA staff got together and said our veterans need something like this,’’ Hook said. “For the last 40 years, we’ve had teams of staff, coaches, volunteers, sponsors, all types of people and veteran athletes showing up to build this incredibly large and amazing community that sits here with us today.’’

 

Giogi Chiappo-West, U.S. Air Force Air Base Inspector General (2-Year Participant, Pickleball, Badminton, Table Tennis and Air Rifle) — “Engaging, communicating and connecting with other veterans. Making our coaches proud of what they have accomplished through us.’’

 

Jim Leahy is executive director of the Veterans Canteen Service (VCS), a longtime event sponsor that operates retail stores, cafes, and coffee shops, providing great value to veterans across the country.

 

He’s constantly involved with the well-being of veterans and said the Games offer substantial benefits.

 

“Keep stacking your accomplishments both physically and nutritionally,’’ Leahy said. “Remember that movement is medicine.’’

 

Tony (TC) Clemons, U.S. Marine Corps Administration and Logistics (First-Year Participant, Track and Field) — “Looking forward to competing against other like-minded veterans.’’

 

John Bartrum, a retired Major General who is Under Secretary for Health with the Veterans Health Administration, addressed Saturday night’s Opening Ceremonies crowd and said, “Your service is the reason we are celebrating 250 years of freedom.’’

 

“We will never forget that we, as America, stand on the shoulders of the veterans from every generation of our history,’’ Bartrum said. “Veterans and their families bear a burden that most Americans will never fully understand. Every veteran athlete that’s here today has a story. Some have overcome illness, injury, loss or significant life challenges. Your presence is an inspiration to us all.’’

 

Linda Bowers, U.S. Army Personnel Services (14-Year Participant, Track and Field, Pickleball and Badminton) — “Reconnecting with my friends and the excitement of testing my limits.’’

 

Whether it was the presentation of the colors by the Lake Region High School Marine Corps Junior ROTC or the rousing rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner by Sonya Bryson Kirksey, a retired Air Force sergeant, patriotism was in the air Saturday night.

 

So was the sense of commitment and drive necessary to participate in something like the Golden Age Games.

 

U.S. AU.S. Army veteran Ray Tingstrom, a retired Lieutenant Colonel and Special Forces Green Beret, has competed alongside his veteran sons, Pete and Mick. A true family affair. Saturday night, Tingstrom led everyone in the reading of the “Athlete’s Oath " for the Golden Age Games.

 

“I will take part in the National Veterans Golden Age Games in the true spirit of sportsmanship. I promise to abide by the rules that govern them and respect the officials who are applying them for the glory of sport in honor of my fellow veterans and pride in our country.’’

 

The Golden Age Games are underway.

 

“We work with all sorts of sporting events, but an event like this never fails to stir the emotions and make you proud,’’ said Jason Aughey, senior vice president of sports tourism for the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, which is helping to organize and oversee the Golden Age Games. “There are so many great stories here. We’re so proud to be involved.’’