Sharon Baker running in the Alaska International Winter Games. She runs and bikes during the games, which are held in August. She is also a commissioner for several events.
Sharon Baker was just about to go on a bike ride when she paused to talk to the Senior Voice.
The Fairbanks resident is active year-round. In the winter she skis, preparing for the Sonot Kkaazoot, a 50-kilometer ski race in late March. Then in April she straps on running shoes and begins training for the annual Equinox Marathon in September.
"I love to be outside," Sharon said.
Part of her athleticism is participating in the Alaska International Senior Games, both as an athlete and as an official. The games are August 7-16. This is the official state qualifier of the National Senior Games, which is an organization of athletes aged 50 and older.
The National Senior Games are held in odd years, and you qualify in even years for those events. The next National Senior Games are in Tulsa, Oklahoma, June 30-July 11, 2027.
"I'm almost always competing," Sharon said. "It's nice to challenge yourself, push yourself. Unless you get in competition, you don't know how fast you can go. I won't go as fast unless I'm pushed a little bit. Always fun to see where you're at. Sometimes I can do better and maybe a lot better than I thought."
Sharon's mom is also a competitor in the Alaska International Senior Games. She plays bocce, an Italian lawn game similar to bowling.
Consider participating or watching the events. You can learn about the games, and how to register, at this link: https://www.alaskaisg.org/games/ It also has a schedule of events.
You can plan your visit to Fairbanks by going to this site. Of course, it's the height of summer, so be prepared for Fairbanks to be chock-a-block with visitors.
