An enthusiastic group of athletes and their supporters packed the Jewish Community Center’s Staenberg Family Complex to launch the 42^nd St. Louis Senior Olympics on Thursday, May 26. The opening ceremonies included the passing of a torch from athletes representing the age groups 50s through 100s.

Lynn Wittels, CEO of the J, told the audience, “The Senior Olympics is about athletic competition, but it’s also about camaraderie. It warms my heart to see the same participants year after year.”

The ceremonies also included the presentation of the Helen Stephens Memorial Award, given to Loretta Hopgood, a longtime Senior Olympian. The Walter “Doc” Eberhardt Memorial Award for volunteerism was given to Senior Olympics volunteer Lydia Harrison.

Gallery • 16 Photos

Senior Olympics Opening Ceremonies- Vendor Fair