truthseekersjournal
By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | May 6, 2025
Seniors from across DeKalb County are lacing up their sneakers and getting ready to compete. The 36th Annual DeKalb County Senior Olympic Games began on Monday, May 5, and will run through May 16. The opening ceremony was held at the Exchange Intergenerational Recreation Center in Decatur, where dozens of participants gathered with family and friends to kick off the games.
This event is for residents aged 50 and older and offers them a chance to compete in Olympic-style games across the county. This festival celebrates movement, friendship, and healthy aging, from swimming to bowling, basketball to line dancing.
Celebrating Strength and Spirit
Participants can enter as individuals or as part of a team. Gold, silver, and bronze will be awarded to the top three finishers in each event. Events are spread out across DeKalb County at various venues to ensure everyone has access.
Some of the featured competitions include:
- 3-on-3 basketball
- Track and field events like the 50-yard dash and softball throw
- Pickleball (singles and doubles)
- Swimming races in different strokes and distances
- Table tennis and billiards
- Golf and card games
- Water volleyball and line dancing
Seniors needing transportation help are encouraged to contact MARTA Mobility at 404-848-5389.
A Message of Motivation
Two-time Olympic gold medalist DeeDee Trotter opened the games with a powerful message. Once labeled an underdog, Trotter told the crowd how she turned that label into fuel for greatness. Her long career in track and field brought her multiple titles, including Olympic medals and national championships.
After retiring from sports, Trotter followed a new dream — baking. She graduated from the Art Institute of Atlanta as valedictorian with a 4.0 GPA and is now the Executive Pastry Chef at a top golf club. She also runs her own bakery, “Taste of Gold.” Trotter’s story reminded everyone that it’s never too late to chase your goals.
A Community Committed to Health
The Senior Olympic Games are hosted each May by DeKalb County’s Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs to celebrate Older Americans Month. The goal is to help seniors stay active, social, and healthy.
“It’s no secret that baby boomers are entering their golden years,” said a department spokesperson. “We want to help them do that with strength and joy. Staying fit and active is the best answer to aging.”
This year, more than 30 events are featured. Some, like the football toss and standing long jump, focus on mobility and coordination. Others, like card games and dominoes, are designed to keep the mind sharp and the spirit engaged.
“It’s not just about competition,” said Damon Scott, Director of Human Services. “It’s about building community, having fun, and proving to ourselves that age is just a number.”
Local Leaders Lend Support
The opening ceremony featured remarks from several community leaders, including:
- Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, DeKalb County CEO
- Mereda Johnson, District 5 Commissioner
- Nicole Massiah, District 3 Commissioner
- LeDena Bolton, Super District 7 Commissioner
- Damon Scott, Director of Human Services
- Remy Epps, City of Decatur Parks and Recreation Director
Each speaker highlighted the importance of staying active in later life and praised the Senior Olympics as a model for healthy living.
“Our seniors are the heart of DeKalb County,” said CEO Cochran-Johnson. “They have raised families, built careers, and shaped this community. Now, we get to celebrate their strength and perseverance.”
Beyond the Games
For many participants, the games are about more than medals. They’re a chance to see old friends, meet new ones, and feel the joy of movement. Some use the games to try new activities for the first time. Others are seasoned competitors who look forward to the event every year.
The games also offer a chance for families to come together. Organizers encourage younger relatives to cheer on their elders and even sign up to volunteer. “It brings the whole family into the fitness mindset,” said one event organizer.
For those who aren’t competing, volunteering is another way to get involved. Helpers are needed to set up events, track scores, and cheer on athletes. “Every smile, every clap, every word of encouragement matters,” said LeDena Bolton, Commissioner for Super District 7.
A Growing Tradition
The DeKalb County Senior Olympics began more than three decades ago with a simple mission: to keep older adults moving. Since then, it has grown into a beloved community tradition that draws hundreds of participants every year.
“Every year, we see more people joining and more energy in the air,” said Nicole Massiah, District 3 Commissioner. “This event is proof that you can age with power and purpose.”
With health at the center of the event, organizers also offer information on wellness programs, nutrition, and preventive care. Some venues even provide health screenings during the games.
As one participant put it, “You come for the games, but you leave with a new reason to stay active all year.”
Looking Ahead
The 2025 DeKalb Senior Olympics run until May 16, with a closing ceremony to celebrate all participants and volunteers. This final showcase will include awards, performances, and community tributes.
The Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs hopes this year’s games inspire even more seniors to get involved. “Our mission is to promote healthy lifestyles through fun, fitness, and play,” said an official. “We are looking forward to seeing even more smiling faces next year.”
For registration or information on events and volunteering, visit the county’s website or contact the recreation department directly.
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Great exposure for DeKalb County seniors who have given so much, now enjoying the fullness of life and living.
Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to read our publication. Here at the Truth Seekers Journal, we consider it an honor to have an opportunity to cover stories about our seniors.
Just in case you missed them, we have included the links below to two additional pieces that we published. Finally, please use the links in upper right corner to reach our Facebook and Instagram pages where there will be more photos of the Senior Olympics.
https://truthseekersjournal.com/the-lou-walker-senior-center-a-beacon-of-learning-and-healing-in-dekalb-county/
https://truthseekersjournal.com/carleen-cumberbatch-named-distinguished-older-georgian/