In a newsletter dated April 28, 2020, Deanna Clifford, president of the Ohio Senior Games board of directors, announced the cancellation of the 2020 event for safety reasons related to COVID-19.
“The Ohio Senior Olympics (OSO) Board of Trustees has voted to cancel the 2020 State Summer Games for safety reasons related to COVID-19. The Board made this decision out of an abundance of caution for the health and safety of senior athletes, the many volunteers and officials who are crucial to the operation of the games and staff at the City of Westerville, where the games are hosted. We cannot safely hold events and ensure social distancing. Since there are still many unknowns about the coronavirus, we cannot in good conscience hold this year’s games and potentially put people in jeopardy.
“We recognize the 2020 state games are the qualifier for the 2021 National Senior Games. NSGA is analyzing potential impacts from COVID-19 on State Senior Games and the qualifying process for the National Senior Games in 2021. They are reviewing several potential scenarios and considering many factors. If the situation requires that changes are made to the current qualification process, NSGA will continue regular communications with the State Senior Games to share information with athletes.
“Please know that OSO will do everything we can to help those Ohio athletes who want to compete nationally have that opportunity. Thank you for your continued support. Stay well.”
For more information about the Ohio Senior Games visit ohio.nsga.com.
Photo credit: Banner image from Ohio Senior Games website. The text “Cancelled” added by Slowpoke Divas.
