Detroit chosen to host Veterans Golden Age Games in 2016

Detroit VA leadership, along with the Detroit Sports Commission, recently announced that the city will play host to what’s known as the premier senior adaptive rehabilitation program in the United States, the Department of Veterans Affairs National Veterans Golden Age Games.

On August 12th in Omaha, Nebraska, the Detroit VA team was ‘handed the torch’ from the Omaha VA team, a symbol of the awarding of the games to the city.

The National Veterans Golden Age Games is the only national multi-event sports and recreational seniors’ competition program designed to improve the quality of life for all older Veterans, including those with a wide range of abilities and disabilities.

The games, to be held July 10 – 14, 2016, are open to Veterans, 55 and older, who receive health care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Events include such things as air rifle, bowling, cycling, swimming, golf, racquetball, and more.

“This is fantastic for both our city and our medical center,” said Dr. Pamela Reeves, director of the Detroit VA. “We expect about 1,200 vets to compete in various locations around the city. And, it gives all those in the area who have a deep appreciation and admiration for our vets, a chance to volunteer for this incredible event.”

For more information on sponsorships and volunteering, contact NVGAG Local Coordinator Bill Browning at 313-576-3332 or William.browning@va.gov. To learn more about the games, visit http://www.va.gov/opa/speceven/gag/.

Since 1939, the Detroit VA Healthcare System has been improving the health of the men and women who have so proudly served our nation. In 1996, the medical center moved from Allen Park to the current location on John R. in Detroit. Services are available to more than 330,000 veterans living in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, and St. Clair counties. This population represents approximately forty-four percent of the veteran population in the lower peninsula of Michigan. For additional information, visit http://www.detroit.va.gov.