USA Masters

Back in 2017, I was able to see history in the making. You see, my wife Mary Ann and I were fortunate enough to attend the very first USA Masters Games. Billed as the National Sports Festival for Adult Athletes, they’re a sight to behold!

Prior to 2017, a wide range of different countries hosted the Masters Games: Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Australia, Europe, and South America. Greensboro, North Carolina was the lucky city that got to host the first American edition.

Here are some of my memories of the event.

Competitors from All Over

I attended and competed in the 5K race walk with about 27 people from all over—including India! We went to the North Carolina A&T State University’s Aggie Stadium for the events. It was such an impressive venue!

In fact, the Games introduced us to Greensboro’s other impressive venues including The Greensboro Coliseum Complex, which features the largest seated arena in America.  Next door is the Greensboro Aquatic Center, where we watched the diving and synchronized swimming competitions.

Several thousand people were in attendance at the very first games. As I said, I witnessed history in the making.

More Memories, More Fun

As someone who’s been to multiple Master Games, the great thing is that they give you a chance to compete with some of the best athletes in your age bracket in the country. You got to show off all your hard work! Plus, you can view other sports competitions at no additional cost.

Additionally, you get to meet new friends with similar interests. Plus, you have a good reason to travel! In addition to Greensboro, during the last 12 months, I have been to Senior or Master events in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Albuquerque, and Florence (South Carolina, not Italy). I thoroughly enjoyed each one!

Still not convinced you should attend?

Here are some pictures I captured during the history-making event.

1. Table Tennis

First, we watched table tennis. These guys were great and so fast! They were very serious about their competition. Who said that older athletes don’t have great reflexes?

2. Hockey, Anyone?

Next, we took in an Ice Hockey game at the Greensboro Coliseum. As someone who’s not great at ice skating, I was so impressed. These athletes glided across the rink with effortless grace.

3. Shall We Take a Dip?

Next, we went to the Greensboro Aquatic Center where we watched the divers compete from 4 different levels. The high dive is no misnomer. It really is high!

4. Synchronized Swimming

Next groups of ladies were doing a fantastic job with the synchronized swimming. They were having a great time.

5. Racewalking (feat. Yours Truly!)

Start of the 5k race walk. I am in the red shirt 6th from left.

6. We Are the Champions

Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals were awarded. (I’m on the right.)

I think we may go to the next USA Masters Games in San Diego. Getting a group from our Del Webb Community to attend together would be such fun!