The Show-Me State Games recently announced that, in 2009, the Missouri State Senior Games will be held in conjunction with the summer Show-Me State Games. The 25th annual Show-Me State Games will be held during the weekends of July 17-19, July 24-26 and July 31–Aug. 2.
The Missouri State Senior Games, traditionally held earlier in the summer, began in 1995 as a way for Missouri athletes ages 50 and older to qualify for the National Senior Games.
“This year, the Show-Me State Games is celebrating its 25th anniversary.  By also hosting the Senior Games during this milestone, we will give our senior athletes the opportunity to be a part of Missouri history,” Ken Ash, executive director of the Show-Me State Games, said.
“In addition, like all businesses and organizations, we are looking for every possible way to be financially responsible during these challenging times.  We believe hosting the Senior Games in conjunction with the Show-Me State Games will be a responsible way to continue to support our mission.”
The Show-Me State Games’ mission is to promote health, fitness, family and fun for Missourians across the state. The non-profit organization receives no state money and is funded through corporate sponsorships, entry fees, merchandise sales and fundraisers.
“I am confident the Missouri State Senior Games will continue to provide the opportunity for seniors to have fun and stay physically active,” Russ Stott, Missouri State Senior Games coordinator, said. “In addition, holding the Senior Games during the Show-Me State Games will give the athletes the opportunity to be a part of the 25th anniversary and maybe even watch their children or grandchildren compete.”
During the opening ceremonies on July 17, the SMSG will invite participants of the Senior Games to march together during the parade of athletes. Additional details about Senior Games events and opportunities can be found at www.smsg.org/senior_games.
The Show-Me State Games was established in 1985 as a nonprofit program of the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Health and has now grown to be the largest state games in the nation. This statewide multi-sport program is designed to inspire Missourians to develop their physical and competitive abilities and to foster an amateur athletic network of participants, volunteers and sports enthusiasts throughout Missouri.
For more information, call 573-882-2105 or visit www.smsg.org.