Jody Olson first organized the Southeast Idaho Senior Games 12 years ago.

    Monday night, a sizable cauldron was lit during an Opening Ceremony at OK Ward Park to honor the 300 competing athletes. It also represented Olson literally handing the Senior Games torch to her daughter, Dana.

    “She’s passing it on to me. It’s staying in the family,” Dana said of her 84-year-old mother. “It’s something I’m proud of.”

    As Dana assumes the organizer position for the Southeast Idaho Senior Games, she says there are a lot of information, tips and secrets to pick up along the way — 12 year’s worth, to be exact.

    “She’s still going to be around, passing on her knowledge to me,” she Dana said. “I keep telling her that she needs to keep reminding me.”

    She said her excitement to help shape and form the future of the Games is based on the many people she gets to meet every year.

    “(A lady) named Alice Campbell started learning how to do archery this year, because she learns something new every year,” Dana said. “She entered the archery competition and did well. There are those sort of neat stories that make it unique.

    “The camaraderie, being with other people and sharing the experience, that’s what important.”

    Dana also says Jody’s participation in events has kept her lively and in good health, one of the main goals of the Senior Games.

    “Her active life style has kept her healthy,” she said. “She believes that playing and being active has been key in her life.”

    Monday’s Opening Ceremony, in the light of the freshly lit torch, was an evening to honor Jody and the many other board members and volunteers who have helped make the Senior Games what they are today.

    Individuals such as Pat Crites, a retiring board member, Krista Robinson, another board member who passed away, and Steve Rowlands, the archery coordinator, who also passed on.

    Dana said sponsors that have been a part of the Senior Games will also be honored.

    “They get plaques for their dedication and/or sponsorship,” she said.

    Marlene Green is another incoming board member who will also be taking the reins in a leadership position.

    The Games began last Saturday as bocce ball, archery and some basketball events were completed. They will continue through Saturday with activities such as bowling, bicycle racing, dancing and softball.

     And so far, so good, according to Publicity Chairperson and Treasurer Debbie Green.

    “It’s a fun week,” she said. “They seem to be going quite well.”

    Dana agrees, although she says it has been hectic due to the newness of her position.

    “It’s kind of a transition year,” she said.

    She added that even though the numbers are a smaller than in year’s past, the Senior Games have attracted new athletes because of new, unique sports and events — games such as Wii bowling.

    “The numbers are a little bit lower, but we’re expanding it and getting more people involved with different sports,” Dana said.

    The Southeast Idaho Senior Games continue today with the second session of track and field at Davis Field at 1 p.m.