The Senior (Olympic) Games 2009

Our last night spent with the Senior Games (Olympics) was Saturday evening; representing Indiana by walking behind our flag in the Celebration of Athletes. We stayed an extra day to be able to participate in this ceremony and truthfully, we were a little worried that it might not be worth the time out from our journey - after all, we have much of this land to see before September 4. We quickly realized there was no reason to worry - the night was nothing less than magical. The stadium at Stanford University was filled with athletes and spectators - I don't know the count but the stadium was sold out. The Committee in change of the Celebration planned a star spangled event. Lights were flashing, people were cheering, dancing, and jumping to their feet - it was a true celebration of perseverance and fortitude for the 10,000 athletes who attended and participated in the Games. There were celebrities and Olympic athletes who talked about how inspiring it was for them to watch the Games and the competition. They spoke of the various competitors who have overcome obstacles...they spoke of those who would stand on the top platform and accept the gold medal and those who would not. They encouraged everyone.

Ken and I know we gave it all we had - we were outmatched by some of the best athletes in the United States (any age). We were honored and thrilled simply to be part of the Games. We may not have walked away with gold, silver, or bronze medals; however, we take with us cherished memories of taking a chance on something we believed was worth the effort - something that would bring out the competitor in each of us. We congratulate all who stood on the podium, including those who put their heart into the game and walked away with honor and joy knowing they gave it their all.

The Games were full of Extra Milers - some we faced up close. Mary Jo from Canada, my first competitor and also an international Champion from Canada, could have easily slammed every shot my way; however, that would not be the case. She was encouraging and kept the game alive - I lost the game to my own mistakes. She congratulated me for being there, despite my rookie status with the game of badminton and she pointed out my strengths. My next two opponents were equally as kind and encouraging. While nobody likes to lose...each of these women made it easier to take by being with such graceful and caring winners. They didn't have to look back after the match point, but they did.

Ken isn't used to losing and I was impressed at how hard he played and how well he handled defeat. He also had opponents who showed good sportsmanship. We won a match in our mixed doubles. The other team was from Eureka Springs, Arkansas (a city featured in this blog earlier). The woman had been playing for nearly four years and the man had been played on and off since childhood (I believe). They were worthy competitors and we had close games. It was a fun match and we enjoyed encouraging them in later matches.

This was certainly the closest I've ever been to such a large scale athletic production and the entire event was impressive. If I don't meet another Extra Miler on this trip - I could have easily made a quota at these Games. I hope we can both remain healthy enough to stay with badminton and give this another try in two years. Thanks for following us to the Games. Now, on to Oregon and the Northern States of the US.
Nite ~ Carol and Ken