Virtual Bowling for Seniors Is for Real
Wii bowling tournaments are becoming more popular in Connecticut.
When you think of people who 'play' video games - "senior citizens" may not be the first to come to mind.
But the Wii Bowling game has become a huge hit at senior citizen centers around the state. And the state's four best teams faced each other in a Tournament Friday.
Betty Courtenay, of Colchester, was one of those who competed in the Health Net Cup Championship Friday in Wallingford. As she "bowled" a strike, she heard applause and a yell from the crowd, "way to go girl".
"It's been wonderful because you're with all your friends and we're really not in competition against each other," Courtenay said. "We're just going out and having fun," she added.
Fun is what keeps these seniors playing. There is a physical benefit in the game too. It is easier on their shoulders than real bowling. But "getting together" and "cheering each other on" is what they love.
"It's socialization," said Bob Beckwith of Clinton. "They come out and meet new people. It's been outstanding."
Health Net, based in Shelton, donated the Nintendo Wii video game systems to 90 Connecticut senior centers. It sponsored the Friday tournament among teams from Enfield, Colchester, Torrington and Hamden.
Trudy Dourous, Enfield, was one of the competitors who shared her technique.
"I think I concentrate, you know," Dourous said, adding with laughter, "and then you just hope that it's going to go."
Some of the seniors in the tournament bowled years ago, and have learned to adapt to the digital version of the game.
"I always bowl with a straight ball," explained Peggy Coulombe. "And over here, I have a wicked curve so I had to adjust and it's working out," she said.
The Torrington Senior Center's "Lightening Strikes" team won the trophy at Friday's competition.
Posted Sunday, Jul 19, 2009 - 11:43 PM EST
