L–R: Deputy Director Jeanne Ishikawa, Nancy Miura, Alice Kanemori and Yoshiko Hamaguchi of Ko`olau Senior Hui from Kaneohe and Sherry Goya. (photo courtesy of Dept. of Parks & Recreations).

L–R: Deputy Director Jeanne Ishikawa, Nancy Miura, Alice Kanemori and Yoshiko Hamaguchi of Ko`olau Senior Hui from Kaneohe and Sherry Goya. (photo courtesy of Dept. of Parks & Recreations).

It was a gorgeous day when the 26th Annual Senior Classic Games began at Halawa District Park on Thursday, March 19. There were a total of 91 teams entered from 25 district parks in four different games, totaling 273 participants, not including spectators and staff. The Senior Division participants were ages 55 to 69 and Masters Division were 70-plus; the oldest participant was an active and vibrant 91!

Martha & Herbert Yasuhara

Martha & Herbert Yasuhara

The Senior Classic Games were created in 1989 by Herbert Yasuhara when he worked at Halawa District Park. He wanted to find an activity that would keep his senior club members active. The event has grown every year since then, bringing together participants from all over the island of O‘ahu. Now retired for 27 years, Herbert still returns each year to award lei he makes with soda tabs and ribbon. He and his wife, Martha, enjoy watching the “Tunnel Vision” games in the gym. The outdoor games were “Nine Gates,” “Pin Ball” and the ever-challenging “Peg Ball.”

As a sponsor of this event, Generations Magazine provided 72 medals, which were awarded to senior participants placing 1st, 2nd and 3rd in each event. To join the Senior Classic Games next year, contact Garrett Iwai, recreational specialist, at 808-768-3030 or giwai1@honolulu.gov.