Local resident Len Bokuniewicz feels a bit sheepish about showing off his gold medal from the 100-meter run.
He was sixth tenths of a second slower this year than last, and there were only four people in his division. Other divisions had at least eight, he said.
At the starting line, he thought, “I know some of the people who are pretty good runners, and they’re not here.”
Many would say his 13.93-second finish is still impressive. It was in the age 55-59 division of the Michigan Senior Olympics in Lansing Aug. 1-5.
Charlie Gavette, meanwhile, came away with two silver medals in the 70 and above division of the 100-meter and 200 meter races. His finish times were 16.03 and 33.87, respectively.
Both Bokuniewicz and Gavette played with pain during this year’s competition. Both have been avid softball players, and Bokuniewicz pulled a thigh muscle during a game and had some other challenges.
Gavette has suffered some softball injuries as well, but this past year it was torn knee cartilage that threatened his athletic status. Weight training helped him avoid surgery.
The day before the Senior Olympics, however, he pulled a groin muscle and a quadricep while running on a local school track. He didn’t dampen his passion for competition, however.
“I just put a big wrap on it and it warmed right up,” Gavette said.
Both men would like to see a few more competitors join the action, and they encourage folks to be active, in moderation, of course.
“If you’re hurting, go to the gym and do some stretching,” Gavette said. “It’s fun to get out there.”
For 22 years, the Michigan Senior Olympics has promoted healthy competition for those age 50 and older. For more information on the program, call (248) 608-0250 or on the Internet at www.michiganseniorolympics.org.