The 44th Annual Golden Age Olympics is underway under the guidance of McAllen Parks and Recreation Department. The event started in 1983 with competition in three events and has grown to include over 30 events. Competition is limited to men and women over the age of 50.

The Golden Age Olympics includes a wide range of competitive events for seniors, including shuffleboard, billiards, poker, hearts, bowling, bridge, bike tours, bingo, pickleball, painting, volleyball, table tennis, jigsaw puzzles, bean bag toss, race walk, and a few others. Different events are offered each week now through February 24.

There is a registration fee for almost every event. Fees and registration must be received one week prior to each event unless otherwise noted. Participants may register at Las Palmas Community Center, 1921 N. 25th St.; Lark Community Center, 2601 Lark Ave.; or Palm View Community Center, 3401 Jordan Rd. There is also online registration available at mcallenparks.net/golden-age-olympics/.

You can find full details online by going to mcallenparks.net.

There is a park versus park competition. Each RV park will compete for this unique award. Points are awarded for playing in individual events. In team events, 75% of players must be from the same park to receive points.

In addition to awards in individual events, points are awarded for participants finishing in first through third place. Overall Olympians are determined as the male and female participant with the most points. Participants finishing overall in first through third place will be awarded.

Medals will be awarded at the end of each competition. Results for some events may require additional time.

An awards ceremony will be held on Wednesday, February 28 at Lark Community Center. Admission for that event is $3 per person and must be purchased in advance.

In addition to the other awards, there will also be a Golden Age Olympics Hall of Fame award. This award honors and recognizes participants that promote the benefits of active, productive, and purposeful living. Up to one male and female is inducted each year. Nominees must be age 50 or older and a participant of the golden Age Olympics at least 10 years. Posthumous nominations are accepted. Nominations are available at the Parks and Recreations Administration Office. Deadline for nominations is Friday, February 14. Recognition will take place at the February 28 awards ceremony.

The McAllen Parks and Recreation office has recently moved to their new facilities at 2001 Trophy Drive. For any other information or questions, call (956) 681-3333.