NEW YORK, March 22, 2023 – Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP has selected five exceptional older adult athletes as 2023 “Senior Planet Sponsored Athletes.” Throughout the year, these five seniors will share their fitness journeys with the Senior Planet community to inspire other older adults to get active in unique and authentic ways.
OATS is on a mission to challenge outdated stereotypes about the type and level of athleticism that older adults can achieve. The Senior Planet Sponsored Athlete Program, now in its fourth year, highlights the remarkable athletic feats that older adults can accomplish–along with the importance of staying active and fit. Past Sponsored Athletes showcased power weightlifting, surfing, lawn bowling, hula hooping, and more.
“Older athletes are making waves in the media, and we are proud to be a part of this movement of seniors who are showing the world their strength,” said OATS from AARP Executive Director Tom Kamber. “From the everyday heroes to the elite performers, Senior Planet Sponsored Athletes are demonstrating that fitness is for all of as we grow older.”
Meet the 2023 Senior Planet Sponsored Athletes:
- Rick Clendenen is a 72-year-old avid pickleball player, inspiring older adults in his community to take up the sport that gained immense popularity in the post-pandemic world. He lives on Camano Island, WA. Rick will host a webinar for the Senior Planet digital community on March 15, 2023.
- Gerry Morgan Smith is 75 years old and constantly walks to improve her health. She lives in Mission Viejo, CA. Gerry will host a webinar for the Senior Planet digital community on April 19, 2023.
- Della Adams is 64 years old and enjoys Olympic-style weightlifting, powerlifting, and running. She lives in Memphis, TN. Della will host a webinar for the Senior Planet digital community on May 17, 2023.
- Richard Westbrook is 70 years old, whose exercise journey has given him a ‘second chance at life.’ He lives in Memphis, TN. Richard will host a webinar for the Senior Planet digital community on June 21, 2023.
- Kathleen Molloy is 73 years old, who has changed her life with CrossFit. She lives in Murrells Inlet, SC. Kathleen will host a webinar for the Senior Planet digital community on July 19, 2023.
Senior Planet Sponsored Athletes are selected following a competitive, nationwide application process. Applicants are required to meet the following selection criteria: must be age 60+, engage in some type of sport or fitness activity 3x per week, and agree to host live webinars and events on seniorplanet.org. Each recipient receives a $1,000 stipend to help them reach their fitness goals!
OATS has helped thousands of seniors get in shape, learn new skills, save money, and make new friends through free classes and workshops offered through its flagship program, Senior Planet. To read more about the 2023 Senior Planet Sponsored Athletes and follow their journeys, visit SeniorPlanet.org.
About OATS from AARP
OATS from AARP helps older adults learn to use and leverage technology to transform their lives and their communities. Through its flagship program, Senior Planet, OATS works closely with older adults to create extraordinary experiences in-person and online. As one of AARP’s charitable affiliates, the mission of OATS from AARP is “to harness the power of technology to change the way we age.” To learn more, visit www.oats.org or follow @OlderAdultsTech on social media.