In the final event of the track competition at the 2025 National Senior Games presented by Humana, athletes traded rivalry for teamwork in the 4×100 relay, forming their own teams after a week of individual races.
In the women’s 55+ division, Diahann Armstrong (60), Donna Lawrence (57), Veronica LeShore (59), and Andrea Collier (59) sprinted to victory with a time of 53.78 seconds, the fastest among all women’s teams and just shy of a national record. Despite only practicing together for 10 minutes before the race, their chemistry was evident.
“This is an amazing experience,” Andrea said. “We’re excited about our time because we came so close to the record.”
Diahann called it “the most exciting part of the meet,” and Donna reflected on the unique setup: “It’s fantastic. We believe iron sharpens iron, so we love competing and teaming up with each other.”
In the men’s 55+ division, Steven Silvey (59), Lloyd Hightower (57), Raymond Cage (56), and Stephen Williams (55) combined for an impressive 49.69 second finish, the fastest men’s time of the meet.
After being neck and neck with each other in their individual races all week, Raymond brought the team together. They practiced handoffs for just 15 minutes but made the most of it by strategically placing runners based on their strengths: curves or straightaways.
“When you realize you’re going to run together, you form a brothership. It’s going to be fun no matter the result.” Lloyd said.
“Individual medals are great,” he added, “but doing it with these guys and seeing how it all comes together, you can’t beat it.”
By: Gabi Mercurio
