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Older Athletes Take Center Stage at Pasadena Senior Games Track & Field Event This Weekend

The Pasadena Senior Games Track & Field competition is set to electrify Occidental College this weekend, showcasing the strength, agility, and sheer determination of older athletes. With 196 competitors registered across 534 events, this annual gathering proves that athleticism knows no age limit. 

The 50-meter dash stands out as the most popular event, with 47 men and 21 women ready to sprint to victory. The long jump, discus, and javelin will also see fierce competition, as athletes push their limits in pursuit of personal bests. 

While records can emerge from unexpected contenders, a few seasoned competitors continue to set the bar high. Ninety-seven-year-old Gunnar Linde is ready to take on the 400M event, while longtime Senior Games participant Don Leis (93) will challenge the field in sprints, long jump, and throwing events. Among the youngest entrants, Bryan Mu (50) will compete in the 50M sprint, while Elly Mann (also 50) takes on the 100M, 200M, and 400M. 

Pole vault—a rarity among older adult competitions—will feature eight athletes, including the oldest competitor, Thierry Boucquey (75), and the youngest, Lynn Larsen (57). 

Many participants have been competing in the Pasadena Senior Games for years, some even since its early days. Sarah Sneider (81), a dedicated athlete and host of the Powerlifting competition, will take on track sprints and shot put. Legendary competitor Kathy Bergen (86), known for her dominance at Nationals, will enter multiple sprint and field events, continuing her legacy of excellence. 

“The spirit of competition here is unbeatable,” said Akila Gibbs, Executive Director. “These athletes redefine what it means to stay active, proving that age is no barrier to speed, strength, and skill.” 

With competitors traveling from as far as Japan, the event highlights the global passion for fitness and perseverance at every stage of life. 

Join us this weekend at Occidental College for an unforgettable display of athleticism and determination. 

For 65 years, Pasadena Senior Center’s mission has been to improve the lives of older adults through caring service with opportunities for social interaction, fitness programs, basic support and needs services, education, volunteerism and community activism. With 10,000 Americans per day becoming older adults, the center is a leader in addressing issues of aging and provides innovative, cutting-edge, nationally recognized programs for this population group.

As a donor-supported nonprofit, the center operates without any local, state or federal funding and provides more services to older adults than any other organization in the San Gabriel Valley. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. To learn more visit www.pasadenaseniorcenter.org or call 626-795-4331.