BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

PRESTONSBURG — Martin County Senior Citizens bowled Thursday at Bowl Rite Lanes in Prestonsburg in the 2022 Big Sandy Senior Games.

“We had a small crowd this year due to COVID-19, but all participants had a great time,” Martin County Senior Citizens Center director Jennifer Crum said.

Participants from Martin County included Ester Kirk, Bertha Jude, Norma Bowen, Betty Grace and Ida Bowen.

They will join participants from other Big Sandy counties May 20 for the outdoor games at Dewey Lake.

The Aging Department at Big Sandy Area Development District has held the Senior Games each year in May since 1985 as part of “Older Americans Month” activities.

“Our programs are to help and assist our aging population in our Big Sandy Area and let them know they still are important and are loved,” Angela Slone, Big Sandy ADD SHIP coordinator/grandparent coordinator, said.

Games include bowling, softball toss, horseshoes, basketball free throw and spot shoot, football toss, archery and race walk.

Each event is divided into gender and age groups to compete for first-, second- and third-place medals.

“If you like competition, you should think about joining us for the Senior Games next year,” said Crum.

Martin County Judge/Executive Colby Kirk signed an “Older Americans Month” proclamation Friday. His proclamation urges residents to recognize the contributions of older citizens, help create an inclusive society and join efforts to support their choices about how they age in their communities.