The countdown is on. The South Dakota Senior Games starts Thursday this week. They will be in Huron, so we will be staying with Sarah’s parents. One hitch–our daughter Molly is being induced on Wednesday–we may have some altering of plans for this week–will just have to see how everything goes. But when it comes to the Games, this week feels different. Not because the workouts have changed, but because they mean something more. Every lift, every run, every stretch is a reminder: I still get to do this!
Competiton at this age isn’t about being the fastest. It’s about showing up. It’s about proving to yourself that the work you put in matters–not just for competition days, but for every day. It’s about pushing past the voice that says: “You’re too old for this”, and answering with a grin: “Watch me!”
My wife and I have been training side by side–just like we have for decades. We laugh about the miles we used to run, the PR’s we used to chase. Those times are behind us, but something richer is here now: Shared strength, shared effort, shared joy!
The senior games are more than a competition. They’re a celebration. A celebration of health, or resilience, of the community of athletes who refuse to stop moving. Each of us brings our own story to the starting line. Mine includes 35 years of marriage, decades of medicine, thousands of miles, and a few streaks that taught me persistence. This week, I’ll carry that story into every event. Not because I have to prove anything–but because I get to prove that staying active keeps life alive.
These are my shoes by the back door. First pair is my running shoes. 2nd pair is my walking shoes. 3rd pair is my weightlifting shoes. All there, ready to go. Ready each day. We are ready to compete!
We are running several distance events. Biking. Lifting. This week, it’s not about age–it’s about attitude. The Senior Games start Thursday, and every rep, every mile, and every drop of sweat has been leading here. Sarah and I have been training side by side, chasing strength, not just speed. Because movement doesn’t just add years to your life–it adds life to your years! Let’s go! Keep moving everybody!
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day of newest streak: # 522