For four decades, the Mid-Carolina Senior Games has brought older adults together to celebrate active living, friendly competition and creative expression. What began as a small local program has grown into one of the region’s most inspiring celebrations of active living for adults aged 50 and over. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Mid-Carolina Senior Games, a milestone that highlights decades of dedication from participants, volunteers and community partners. Coordinated through Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks & Recreation and Harnett County Parks & Recreation, the games bring together older athletes and artists from across the region to compete, perform and celebrate healthy aging.
LaShonda Gough, Health Coordinator and Senior Games Coordinator for the Mid-Carolina Council of Governments, says the mission has remained the same since the program began.
“Our mission promotes health and wellness for all people 50 and better across our region,” Gough said. “The games unite older athletes and SilverArtists in a program that celebrates discipline, dedication and pride in one’s accomplishments.”
Reaching the 40-year milestone reflects the lasting impact of the program on the community.
“It highlights four decades of dedication to healthy aging,” Gough said. “It reflects the commitment of our participants, volunteers, sponsors and community partners who have kept the spirit of the games alive.”
Throughout the years, the Mid-Carolina Senior Games has grown from a handful of local competitions into a diverse program featuring more than 50 athletic and artistic categories. Athletic events include the fun walk, track and field, pickleball, bowling, swimming, cycling, mini golf, disc golf and cornhole. The SilverArts program highlights creative expression through categories such as acrylic painting, pottery, photography, crochet and poetry.
Participants also showcase their talents in performing arts categories, including vocal solos, comedy and dance. One of the highlights this year will be the SilverArts Performance Show on April 23 at 2 p.m. at the J.D. Fuller Recreation Center at 6627 Old Bunce Rd., where community members can watch local performers take the stage. Participation continues to grow. According to Gough, 432 athletes and artists have registered this year, the highest number in the past five years.
“These participants compete in their age groups and give it their all,” she said. “Many are hoping to qualify for the North Carolina Senior Games State Finals in September.”
The Mid-Carolina Senior Games is one of 54 local senior games programs across North Carolina. Athletes who qualify locally advance to the state finals, where winners may earn the opportunity to compete in the National Senior Games, held every two years. This season carries extra excitement because it is a national qualifying year, meaning successful competitors could advance to the 2027 National Senior Games in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Beyond competition, the games promote physical health and community connection for older adults.
“Regular participation improves strength, balance, cardiovascular health and overall well-being,” Gough said. “Many participants say they feel stronger, more mobile and more connected to their community.”
Volunteers are also essential to the program’s success. More than 100 volunteers from organizations including Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks & Recreation, Harnett County Parks & Recreation, Methodist University, Fayetteville State University and Fayetteville Technical Community College help organize and support events each year. The 40th anniversary season will begin with the Celebration of the Games Torchlight Ceremony on April 8 at 9 a.m. at Methodist University, honoring participants and longtime supporters. Among those recognized will be Rhonda Groves and Tracy Honeycutt, who have supported the games for more than two decades.
“For many years they were too young to compete,” Gough said. “Now they are finally able to join the fun themselves.”
They will serve as torchbearers for the 2026 games, recognizing their years of dedication. Gough says the athletes themselves continue to be the most inspiring part of the program.
“Our oldest participant, Mr. Douglas Hepner, is 97 years old and still smashing the bowling lanes,” she said.
For adults considering participating for the first time, Gough offers simple advice.
“Come join us,” she said. “There is truly something for everyone, and you don’t have to be an elite athlete. The games are about participation, fun and challenging yourself at your own pace.”
Community members can also support the Mid-Carolina Senior Games by volunteering with event setup, registration, timing or sponsorship outreach.
More information about the games can be found at www.mccog.org/senior-games.asp, and updates are shared on the Mid-Carolina Senior Games Facebook page. As the Mid-Carolina Senior Games marks its 40th anniversary, it remains a powerful reminder that the spirit of competition, creativity and community only deepens with age.

(Photo: Participants line up for a cycling race at the Mid Carolina Senior Games. The Games are open for those 50 years and older. Photo courtesy of LaShonda Gough.)