Empire State Senior Games to Commence

CORTLAND, NY (06/08/2010)(readMedia)-- Today begins the 28th annual Empire State Senior Games held at the State University of New York at Cortland. The competition will take place through Sunday, June 13.

"It's an honor and a pleasure to see nearly 2000 senior citizens compete in events that showcase an active and healthy lifestyle. I commend all the athletes for their hard work and dedication that they have shown. They are living models of the Empire State Senior Games motto – 'You don't stop playing when you grow old; you grow old when you stop playing,'" Governor David A. Paterson said.

"It's wonderful to see that you can be an athlete no matter your age. This competition is a great way to combine sports and games with fun and fitness," said New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Carol Ash.

The Senior Games gives New York State residents age 50 and older the chance to compete in competitive sports and recreational events. The nearly 2000 athletes compete in 24 competitive sports and 13 recreational events from track and field to swimming. The goal of the Senior Games is to promote healthy lifestyles for all ages, to combine sports with fitness and fun, to provide recreational opportunities and to promote a positive image of New York's senior citizens.

Along with the competition, the Empire State Senior Games includes instructional clinics, informational exhibits and educational seminars.

Additional information on all Empire State Games programming can be found on the Games' website at: www.empirestategames.org.