The Neurolimpiadas, an initiative that began five years ago as a municipal project, has grown into a regional event bringing together seniors over 60 in tests requiring both physical and mental effort. The main goal is to foster active aging, keeping mind and body fit through playful and competitive activities.
Among the most prominent participants is Carmen García, known as Carmita, a 75-year-old from Tenerife's Santa Úrsula municipality. Carmita has competed in several editions, including in La Palma, and has led her team to victory against other enclaves on the island, such as Arafo. Her enthusiasm is infectious, and she emphasizes the importance of fun and camaraderie in these competitions.
“"When you get older, you develop a taste for competing. I tell them I know more than them and they need to sharpen up, but it's all in good fun."
The organizers, Bessay Rodríguez and Óscar Morales, have observed increasing professionalism among participants, which has prompted them to raise the competition's level to a Canary Islands championship. To recognize the effort and dedication of these seniors, the Tenerife Neurolimpiadas insular gala was held last Monday at the Adán Martín Auditorium, gathering representatives from various municipalities.
During the gala, eight women were honored for their outstanding participation and spirit. Among them, Mari González from Grandilla for her inspiration, Carmen de León from Santiago del Teide for her good vibes, and Juana Evangelista González from Santa Úrsula with the Evolution Award. The event was an opportunity for participants to reunite, celebrate their achievements, and enjoy a moment of leisure and friendship.
The gala was attended by authorities such as the vice president of the regional Government, Manuel Domínguez, and the minister of Education, Poli Suárez. The latter praised the founders' vision and expressed a commitment to expand the Neurolimpiadas to more municipalities across the islands, thus consolidating this valuable initiative for the elderly.
