AARP Utah Provides Sponsorships for Huntsman World Senior Games Athletes

By LaRee Jones, AARP Area Coordinator

The Huntsman World Senior Games 25th year venue will be hosted by the City of St. George, Utah. This October event for seniors throughout the nation and world of sports is a time that culminates practice, desire, and team spirit which thrives at any age. AARP'S sponsorship allowed four participants an opportunity they would have been required to forgo.

Eighty-two year old, St. George native, Howard Miles, a retired university professor living in Albuquerque, New Mexico is a runner and participates in the Games.  His daughter, having been on the donor list many years, received a heart transplant recently in Denver, Colorado.  Dr. Miles transported his daughter to Denver, stayed with her during surgery, her lengthy recovery and returned her home.  He was forgoing the Games this year until AARP awarded him a registration ticket.

Mr. Lewis Brown, a longtime member of the St. George Horseshoe Team, delights in participating in the Senior Games, however he revealed to his coach, his home repairs had depleted his only source of income, his retirement  Social Security.  AARP awarded a registration ticket to him. He and his entire team are appreciative.

Mr. Bill Koehler is a cyclist, and won gold in the Senior Games in 2007.  He continues to cycle and has dreamed of competing for the gold again. Due to financial issues, Bill has been unable to pay the registation fees.  This year AARP paid his registration and he is the happiest cyclist on the planet.

Mr. Gilbert Mitchell of Cedar City, has participated in and enjoyed the Games yearly event.  His talent in throwing horseshoes has made him a popular player. His team would have missed him this year due to family events that were depleting.  AARP stepped-in with a registration ticket and Gilbert was given the needed boost.

Each of these recipients and their teams salute AARP for their part in sponsoring and supporting the Huntsman World Senior Games.