Olympics has no bar for age
IF there was to be drug testing at a special Olympic Games to be held at Tanah Merah in Brisbane's south on Monday, July 23, there's little doubt around 90% of competitors would test positive. One thing's for sure though; no one will really care.
The event is being organised by Tall Trees Enriched Aged Care Living, which has facilities dotted around south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales, including one locally at Banora Point.
In a twist on the London Olympic Games, senior athletes from the facilities will experience all that the Games have to offer with some competition of their own.
On the agenda is a torch relay, opening and closing ceremonies, medal presentations and the chance to compete against and socialise with fellow residents.
The unique line-up of events will test both physical and mental prowess.
There are seven events programmed - Wii running, Wii Equestrian, live darts, mini-golf, quoits, trivia and Rummikub, a tile game that combines elements of rummy, dominoes, mah-jong and chess.
"The Wii games in particular have been a fun way for residents to enjoy and take part in sports they love without putting too much physical strain on the body," said Tall Trees director Phil Usher.
"So much so that that it's even taken on the term GeWiiatrics, given the added health benefits."
By the way, that other Olympic event, with the thousands of athletes from almost every nation on earth, begins in London on July 27.
