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The Massachusetts Senior Games held its first power walk competition on June 17, 2018 at Springfield College, Springfield, MA  The race was in conjunction with MASG’s Super Weekend at the college where track and field, basketball, swimming, tennis and racquetball events were held, drawing upward of 250 athletes from Massachusetts, New England and various parts of the U. S.

New Power Walk Event

The National Senior Games (NSG) introduced the Power Walk event this year.   Power Walking event is expected to sprint ahead of the more popular competitions at the state and national levels. Here’s why; unlike race walking, the technique required for power walking is a bit more forgiving, allowing the athlete to bend his/her knee while it is passing beneath the body.  One foot must be in contact with the ground at all times and the heel/toe stride is monitored during the course of the race.  Mature athletes who no longer feel comfortable competing in running events find the Power Walk a challenging alternative.

Talented Power Walkers Among Us

The competition in Springfield was exciting to say the least, with what we estimate to be some of the best walkers in the country going head-to-head.  Although the field was small, the performance was impressive.  Among the men, the three quickest, fought tooth and nail throughout the race.  Consider, however, that Mr. R at age 75, gave away nearly a decade to his younger competitors but still finished second overall, an amazing accomplishment.  group.

On the ladies side, Ms. F, accomplished national runner and walker, covered the distance and won the gold for her age group (60-64). Ms. R, who first learned of the event only the day before at the “Thrive After 55” exposition, breezed around the track winning a gold medal for her age group (65-69).

Power Walk, Don’t Run to find More Information

MASG is considering a second power walk event before the end of the year, probably for the 5K distance.    The NSG will be in Albuquerque, NM in 2019.  The Senior Games will feature both the 1500m and the 5K Power Walk.  Check the Massachusetts Senior Games website (maseniorgames.org) during the weeks ahead for date and location. Be part of this exciting new event.  Please contact G. Greg Tooker by email (gtooker@comcast.net ) and tel. # (508 446 2210) at MASG for more information.

Massachusetts Councils
on Aging

116 Pleasant Street, Suite 306
Easthampton, MA 01027
 
Telephone: 413-527-6425
Fax: 413-527-7138