Senior Games FAQs or Why I Didn’t Register Until Today

Carolyn Leneway

Carolyn Leneway

What are the Senior Games at Sun Lakes? I was intrigued by the concept and curious, but I needed more information. Sound familiar? So I called Ray Texeira and asked some questions. Here is what I learned:

What is the age requirement? I don’t feel like a senior. These games follow the National Senior Games Association, which defines a senior as someone at least 50 years old.

I’m not an athlete, so why should I get involved? The games are designed to involve residents in social games like Mini-Golf, Mah Jongg, or Mexican Train, as well as sports. Some are at full game levels, and some are meant to involve those who know the game but want to learn more.

I don’t know how to play pickleball or short court tennis, so how can I compete? Social pickleball is for beginners and “want to learn or be better” players. Free lessons will be given by the SLCC Pickleball and also by the Short Court Tennis clubs in February and March before the competition. Join the fun and see if you enjoy it.

Will the rules be the same as my club uses? The rules for the games are based on general standards and are on the website. We allow the clubs hosting the games to vary the rules a bit for this multi-community event. Come and learn a different version!

I don’t have any equipment or a partner for the partner events. You will be paired up with someone else who does not have a partner, and we will provide the necessary equipment to anyone who needs it. So, no worries!

Is Sun Lakes Entertainment a new local business? It is a four-year-old, social, nonprofit company focused on promoting social engagement within the Sun Lakes communities.

How will I know if the games I choose fit into my schedule? Most events will occur between 9 a.m. and noon on their scheduled dates listed on the website.

I don’t have a computer, so how do I register? Ask a friend who uses a computer. Each game is only $7, so bring your wallet and your thanks for their help.

I already have lots of friends, so why should I play? This is a perfect activity to do with your friends. Join in the fun at this new community event.

I want to help my community, but what if I don’t win? Each participant will receive 100 points for their community whether they win or not. And if you choose not to play, just come and watch the games. You will receive points for your community.

Well, thanks to Ray, these answers motivated me to go online and register for this fun program, and he extended registration until Feb. 12. I am excited to help my community (Oakwood) bring the grand trophy home to our clubhouse. Go to www.sunlakesentertainment.com for registration and information.

Schedule of Events:

Friday, March 14: Opening Ceremony and Water Balloon Toss at SLCC

Saturday, March 15: Social Pickleball at the SLCC courts

Monday, March 17: Short Court Tennis Doubles at the Cottonwood courts

Tuesday, March 18: Short Court Tennis Round-Robin at the Cottonwood courts

Thursday, March 20: Putt Away Putters Mini-Golf at Sisk Park at Palo Verde

Friday, March 21: Cornhole at Sisk Park at Palo Verde

Tuesday, March 25: Target Golf and Chip & Putt Golf at the Oakwood driving range

Wednesday, March 26: Mah Jongg at Robson Reserve

Monday, March 31: Mexican Train at Robson Reserve

Tuesday, April 1: Competitive Pickleball at the Oakwood courts

Thursday, April 3: Bocce Ball at Sisk Park at Palo Verde

Friday, April 4: Closing Ceremony in the San Tan Ballroom at Cottonwood