Senior athletes throughout New York state are training at fever pitch these days as they look ahead to the 23rd edition of the Empire State Senior Games which will be held in Upstate Cortland, New York from June 7 to 12.

The games feature almost every sport from archery to volleyball in individual and team events. They are open to men and women over 50 years of age. Gold, silver and bronze medals are awarded to the top three finishers in every event.

Social as well as athletic events will be held. Athletes throughout the state can relax, mingle and get to make new friends.

In announcing the events earlier this year, Governor George Pataki declared the annual competition gives seniors an opportunity to enjoy the benefits and rewards of athletics and inspires people of every age to challenge themselves by participating in contests of skill against others in a given sport.

The governor stated: “We especially admire our senior athletes for being examples of discipline throughout their years of practice and hard work evident in remarkable athletic performances. By joining in any number of exciting competitions, you can add to the annals of sports history in New York State, and maybe even achieve a personal best.”

Team entry forms must be postmarked by April 29; individual entry forms must be postmarked by May 6.

Contact games officials by phone at 315-492-9654, fax at 315-492-4268 or the Internet at www.empirestategames.org for applications, or write to: Empire State Senior Games, NYS-Parks–Central Region, 6105 East Seneca Turnpike, Jamesville, New York 13078-9516.

Accommodations are available on campus for the five-day games. Single rooms are $28.50 per day; the rate for a double room is $23.50 per person, per day. This does not include meals. Deluxe rooms are available at The Country Inn.

Social and recreational events are scheduled for Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, and include barbecue, buffet and dinner, respectively, as well as music and entertainment.

At registration/check in, a driver’s license or government-issued non-driver picture ID will be required for proof of age. This is a must, no exceptions. Sports coordinators will check for proper credentials and no athlete can participate without them.

Competition in most activities is according to gender and the following age groups: 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80-84, 85-89, 90-94, 95-99, and 100+. Those who desire can compete in a lower age group but not a higher age group.

In addition to the 20 or more competitive sporting events offered, a few non-competitive events are also scheduled throughout each day. There is no registration for these non-competitive events and one may attend as many as one wishes.

A non-competitor is defined as one who comes to the games to—participate in recreational activities social events, athletic clinics or the wellness fair. Non-competitors must fill out a registration form and pay the $25 registration fee, plus any fees for meals, residence hall and social events.

The Country Inn & Suites, located on Route 281 in Cortland, is the official host hotel for the games. It is conveniently located across the street from the SUNY Cortland Stadium, where most athletic events are held. Deluxe rooms are available at $69 per night. For reservations, call 1-607-753-8300 before May 7.

MEETINGS: AARP Chapter No. 2889 will offer entertainment by Roman Lankios at its next meeting on Wednesday April 6 at 12:30 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Newtown, 54-05 Seabury St., Elmhurst.

Not to be outdone, the North Flushing AARP Chapter No. 4158 will present the Banjo Rascals at its Tuesday, April 12 meeting, noon at Church-on-the-Hill, 167-07 35th Ave., Flushing.