Sports
GA Athlete, 68, Wins 2 Gold Medals At National Senior Games
The Powder Springs resident is honored as a Humana Game Changer for inspiring others with her passion for staying active.
The National Senior Games, presented by Humana, is the largest multi-sport event in the world for people aged 50+. Ever since the first Games in 1987 in St. Louis, the National Senior Games has sought to motivate adults to lead active, healthy lifestyles.
The 2023 National Senior Games, held in Pittsburgh, included nearly 12,000 athletes from across the country competing in 21 unique sports.
Since 2013, Humana has recognized outstanding athletes – those who exemplify active aging and provide encouragement, motivation, and inspiration for people of all ages to pursue lifelong health – as Humana Game Changers.
Today, Patch is shining a spotlight on Loretta Turner, 68, from Powder Springs, who won a gold medal in the women’s 50-meter dash and a gold medal in the women’s 100-meter dash at the National Senior Games. Not only does she love competing in track, but she is also passionate about inspiring and motivating others to be active no matter their age.
Below, Loretta talks about competing in the 2023 National Senior Games and shares advice for other seniors looking to stay active.
Answers have been edited for clarity and length.
How long have you been participating in this sport and how did you get started?
I have been participating in track ever since I was a child. My father got me started in running track.
Can you describe any challenges, health or otherwise, that you had to overcome in order to compete in the National Senior Games?
I had many challenges with my health that I had to overcome for me to compete in the National Senior Games. I suffer from Crohn’s Disease, and it will flare up when I least expect it. I have to push myself through it and don't get upset with myself if I can't complete a workout. I just try again another day.
You were one of 28 athletes selected from the thousands competing at the 2023 National Senior Games for the national honor of being named a Humana Game Changer. Can you tell us more about this honor and what it means to you?
Being selected as one of 28 out of thousands competing at the 2023 National Senior Games is an honor to me because I'm being recognized for doing something that is my passion.
Why is living a healthy, active lifestyle important to you?
Living a healthy, active lifestyle is important to me because I think it enhances my physical and mental health. Running reduces my stress.
What advice do you have for people wanting to be more active who feel like they don’t know where to start?
I would advise anyone who wants to get started being active to start by talking it over with your doctor. It is never too late to start. Make a plan and set some realistic goals.
Please tell us about your experience competing in the 2023 National Senior Games. What was the best part?
My experience competing in the 2023 National Senior Games was exciting and fun. I got to compete with other seniors my age that have the same passion for the sport. The best part was being a Humana Game Changer and winning my races. I hope I can be an inspiration to other seniors to get up and keep moving. God is not through with you yet!
Congratulations, Loretta, on your athletic achievements and helping motivate other seniors to lead healthy, active lifestyles!
More about Humana: Since 2007, Humana has sponsored the National Senior Games and celebrated senior athletes with the NSGA. Specifically, Humana supports the National Senior Games’ mission to keep active adults healthy through education, fitness and sport.
