PORT MARIA, St Mary – As 78-year-old Eva Chattersingh admired the medals at the end of the bright blue ribbons hanging from neck, a broad grin covered her face. The gold-coloured orbs represented this year’s victories in the potato race, 50-metre race, as well as the egg and spoon walk race. She has been a fierce competitor in these categories since becoming a member of the Emmanuel Baptist Church Senior Citizen Group 10 years ago.

Miss Eva, as she is affectionately called, was named this year’s outstanding sportsperson by the St Mary chapter of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security’s National Council for Senior Citizens. She was among 15 of the parish’s senior citizens celebrated for their accomplishments in the areas of sports, community development and service as well as volunteerism. The event took place at the Port Maria Emmanuel Baptist Church on September 25.

Miss Eva is no stranger to competing. As she proudly told the Jamaica Observer, she has played various sports ever since she was a child.

“I love sports and I have always taken part in sports since I was attending Trinity Primary,” she reminisced shyly.

“I keep myself active by doing a lot of housework. I love to bake, and cook along with sewing, so when it’s time I’m ready,” she said when asked how she prepares for sporting contests.

Miss Eva is also a member of the parish’s championship team for the Senior Citizens’ Bible Quiz.

“I would encourage persons, once you become a senior citizen, to become a part of a group as these activities help to keep your brain clear and active,” said the woman with a small frame and broad smile.

Also among the day’s award recipients was 67-year-old Hamilton Mountain resident, Lorna Levine. She beamed with pride as her group, Gifted Hands, was presented with nine awards in the categories of sports, community service and volunteerism. The group, which has more than 10 members, was lauded for the part it played in providing food to Haitian refugees and volunteers in the early days of their arrival. Gifted Hands was also commended for the work it has done in feeding Hamilton Mountain’s shut-ins and the needy.

According to Levine, she and other members lead a very active life, engaging in activities such as making flower pots, crocheting and baking. They share these skills with the younger generations or anyone interested to learn.

“Not because we are old we cannot participate, age is just a number,” the bubbly senior said.

For her, the senior citizens’ groups provide a sense of belonging and importance.

“I have united with my peers where we show love to each other as we participate in the activities,” she said.