Are you looking for a new challenge or spark after 50? Do you want to make a change for your health or find community?
During National Senior Games Week sponsored by CareScout, we’re sharing the stories of two athletes – Mark and Stefanie – who found more than they ever imagined through Senior Games.
Their stories may inspire you to take the leap to find or return to a sport you love. It’s never too late!
Image courtesy Mark Smith.
“I never dreamed retirement would be so fun.” – Mark Smith, Cycling
Mark Smith took up cycling again in his mid-50s after a 20-year break. He was struggling with his weight and type 2 diabetes, and the increase in physical activity improved both.
Retirement a few years later opened the door for Mark to double down on cycling and his health. The first year, he rode 10,000 miles; the following two years, 17,000 miles!
Another door opened when Mark saw a post about the Alabama Senior Olympics. He had missed the registration deadline, but committed himself to training for the next year. In 2024, Mike competed and qualified for the 2025 National Senior Games presented by Humana.
His eyes were locked on the new goal of competing at Nationals, and he increased his mileage even more. The work paid off – Mark earned 8th place in his age group for the 10K Time Trial.
“The health benefits of cycling have had a major impact in my life, but the wonderful people I have met along the way have been a true blessing. That family of people grew so much through both the Alabama Senior Olympics and the National Senior Games,” Mark shares.
“I love racing, but it is the friends I have made that will bring me back again. I never dreamed retirement would be so fun.”
Image courtesy Stefanie Batiste.
Don’t Wait Until You Feel “Ready” – Stefanie Batiste, Basketball
Like many young athletes, Stefanie Batiste dreamed of competing in the Olympics.
“…I imagined what it would feel like to represent something bigger than myself, to push my body to its limits, and to stand proud knowing I gave it everything I had,” she says. “I never imagined that at 60 years old, that dream would finally come true. Yet here I am, having competed in three Senior National Games, and my life has been forever changed.”
How did she get there?
Stefanie played a variety of sports growing up and competed in kickball nationally as an adult. In her mid-50s, she decided it was time to find a new sport. Or in this case, sports! Basketball and track & field were her picks.
She found a basketball team and competed in her first National Senior Games in 2022 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. “That experience was unforgettable. Two weeks on the beach, surrounded by competition and camaraderie, reminded me why I loved sports so much,” Stefanie recalls.
Hungry for more, Stefanie formed a new team – the ATL Lady Hawks. She’s invested her heart, soul and financial resources in building the group, which now has teams in three age groups. Most recently, the ATL Lady Hawks overcame challenges and had a strong showing at the 2025 National Senior Games presented by Humana, finishing 1st, 4th and 6th.
For Stefanie, joining Senior Games changed her entire perspective.
“Competing again reminded me who I was at my core. It shifted my focus completely toward my health, my well-being, and living with intention. I train with purpose now. I eat better. I take care of my body. More importantly, I take care of my spirit.”
Her advice to others who are considering trying Senior Games?
“Just start. Don’t wait until you feel “ready.” Ready comes after you begin. You don’t have to be the fastest or strongest to belong if the desire is there; that’s enough. The bravest step is simply deciding to try. Once you do, confidence and strength will meet you along the way.”
Well said! Learn how to start your Senior Games journey at NSGA.com/start-here.
