For the Love of the Game(s)

Randal C. Hill

THE BEAUTIFUL BURG of Corvallis thrums with anticipation each August when adrenaline-fueled athletes converge to test their skills at the Oregon Senior Games. The extensive variety of events, vibrant spirit and connection with like-minded people is what lures competitive couple Charlie and Eddie Basham from their home in Sparks, Nevada.

Of past events, Charlie says, “The competition was always fun and friendly, and every athlete was extremely supportive of everyone else. There are no losers at Senior Games.”

Much of the Bashams’ medal-gathering success in Corvallis lay in rigorous teamwork. “We train together and strategize together,” explains Charlie. “We encourage and motivate each other to improve and keep focused. We improved our diets and lost weight together. We celebrated our wins and nursed our injuries together.”

In high school, Charlie ran track. After college came numerous 5Ks, 10Ks and triathlons. When his knees gave out, he discovered power walking. While that’s one of his specialties now, other OSG track-and-field events beckon as well — the high jump, long jump and standing long jump.

Eddie also competes at numerous senior games in the West alongside her husband. She recalls, “My most inspirational event was meeting a woman who competed with me in the 1500-meter walking event in Washington state. She was 100 years old! I want to be competing at 100!”

Eddie didn’t play sports in high school, but worked as a fitness instructor during college and has been practicing yoga for three decades. At senior meets with Charlie, she competes in power walking and half marathons. Her advice for anyone considering participating in the Games this August? “Do your best and enjoy the journey! I don’t always get first place in every race or event, but the camaraderie, encouragement, and fun are always palpable! In some races, I am the only female in my age group. I have always been encouraged to finish by other competitors, family, and friends. Finishing a race feels great — and it gives me bragging rights!”

Charlie says, “People come up with plenty of excuses as to why they shouldn’t or can’t compete. But in the last year, I’ve seen dozens of senior athletes who have had knee and hip replacements, as well as heart and back surgeries. I’ve met athletes who are overweight or walk with a cane. But they’re all out there trying. I have seen athletes who finished dead

last in a race get a standing ovation and cheers of encouragement from every other athlete. It’s magic, and it’s heartwarming.”

Learn more about opportunities to join in as a competitor, volunteer, or simply to enjoy the show, at oregonseniorgames.com.

Randal C. Hill is living the dream at the Oregon Coast. Among many topics he covers, old rock n roll hits and little known ’60s trivia are his specialty.