Athletic shoes. Water bottles. And smiles.

Those three things might best describe what you’ll see on seniors throughout July in and around Olympia the Washington State Senior Games brings thousands of older athletes together for competition, camaraderie and just plain fun.

Nearly 2,000 men and women over 50 participate every year.

Many venues have changed locations this year. Most notably, all track and field events have moved from Tumwater High School to North Thurston High School, due to track resurfacing at Tumwater this year.

There’s still time to sign up to participate. Registrations are being accepted through July 11 The fee is $33, plus $9 per each sport a competitor enters. More information is available at www.washingtonstateseniorgames.com and 360-413-0148.

According to Senior Games organizers, the athletes that come back year after year––some in their 90s––report that they most enjoy competing against themselves. They don’t care about medals or how they look in a pair of running shorts. The Games are about fun, first and foremost.