FLORENCE, S.C. - Francis Marion University will play host to hundreds of South Carolina‘s most experienced athletes at the S.C. Senior Sports Classic, May 19-22.

    The four-day classic will begin with events Wednesday morning (May 19) at 10 a.m.  Opening Ceremonies will be held Thursday at 6 p.m. in FMU’s Smith University Center.  The Closing Ceremonies and banquet are set for Saturday (May 22) at 5:30 p.m.

    The classic includes competition for both men and women in approximately 75 different events.  Organizers expect approximately 600 athletes to take part in the 19th-annual classic.

    Competitors will also be trying to qualify for the 2005 Senior Olympics, which will be held in Pittsburgh.

    The purpose of the Senior Sports Classic is to provide a quality recreation experience for adults ages 50 and over.  The goals of the program are to maintain and improve health and wellness of the state’s older adults; to provide competitive athletic and recreational experiences that focus attention on the importance of regular exercise in every individual’s personal plan of health; to provide an opportunity for socializing; to improve the quality and quantity of senior programs at the local level by providing an opportunity for community groups to work together toward a common goal; and to enhance the quality of life for South Carolina’s senior citizens.

    In addition to the sporting contests, there will be a talent show on Thursday evening at 8 p.m. in the McNair Science Building auditorium, and a social and dance on Friday at 6:30 p.m.

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