12,000 Athletes Converge on St. George for Huntsman World Senior Games

St. George, Utah is abuzz as the 38th Huntsman World Senior Games welcome approximately 12,000 athletes from around the globe.

 

Participants, all aged 50 and above, are set to compete in a diverse array of events, including tennis, cycling, cowboy action shooting, and power walking.

 

Kyle Case, CEO of the Games, highlighted the event's significance, noting that it stands as the largest annual Olympic-style competition for senior athletes worldwide.

 

This year, competitors hail from 28 countries, contributing an estimated $42 million to the local economy over the two-week period.

 

The seamless execution of such a grand event hinges on the unwavering support of its volunteers.

 

Approximately 3,000 volunteers fill 5,300 shifts, undertaking roles from chauffeuring athletes on golf carts to ensuring safety during target shooting events.

 

Becky Smith, program director for the Games, emphasized the volunteers' impact, stating, "I've never seen a volunteer that wasn't smiling because they're here... And time and time again, I've heard athletes say, 'I want to come back. The competition is good, but I want to come back because I was so well treated.'"

 

Long-time volunteers like Stan and Sherril Rasmussen exemplify this dedication.

 

Both compete in bowling—Stan for 27 years and Sherril for 17—and have been volunteering for nine years.

 

They oversee athlete check-ins, a task that can see lines stretching down multiple hallways of the Dixie Convention Center.

 

Stan fondly recalls a memorable moment from 2002 when he hit a grand slam while his brother was on second base, highlighting the familial bonds the Games foster.

 

Another dedicated volunteer, Bruce Pickett, 79, embodies the spirit of community involvement.

 

Born and raised in St. George, Pickett returned after years in California, driven by what he describes as "red sand in the bloodstream."

 

He dedicates 10 to 12 hours daily during the Games, overseeing the preparation and delivery of refreshments to various venues.

 

Pickett's commitment stems from a lifelong ethos of service, instilled by his father.

 

He reflects, "I think more than anything else, I just enjoy doing it... And, what am I to do, sit home and watch TV until I die? I'm going to be involved."

 

The Games not only bring athletic competition but also significant economic benefits to St. George.

 

Local businesses, especially those related to sports and dining, experience a surge in customers.

 

For instance, Bee Sweet, a family-owned ice cream store, increases staffing and stock to meet the heightened demand during the event.

 

Employee Cody Ross notes, "We will bring in an extra third person... And just kind of prepping, stocking up on extra ice cream, and our mix and stuff like that."

 

The Huntsman World Senior Games continue to thrive, thanks to the harmonious blend of dedicated volunteers, enthusiastic athletes, and a supportive community.

 

As the event progresses, it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of competition and camaraderie among seniors worldwide.