local
90-year-old living with multiple sclerosis competes in Tennessee Senior Olympics
By Forrest Sanders at NewsChannel 5 WTVF (CBS affiliate)
· June 23, 2026
· 1 min read
It was a foggy morning on the Fairview High track that brought out a whole bunch of driven people. It was the Tennessee Senior Olympics.The crew competing in one event just leapt out to me. There was newer athlete Sara Dutton."I was 71 when I did my first marathon!" she said.There was in-it-to-wi...
Key takeaway The crew competing in one event just leapt out to me.
Why this matters in The Nashville
The Tennessee Senior Olympics, held on the Fairview High track, brought together a group of driven individuals, each with their own unique story. What's notable about this event is the way it showcases the resilience and determination of Nashville 's senior community. Competitors like Eleanor Pendergraft, a 90-year-old living with multiple sclerosis, demonstrate that age and health challenges don't have to be barriers to staying active and engaged. Pendergraft's decision to join a gym and enter the Senior Olympics is a testament to the importance of accessible fitness opportunities for seniors in Nashville. As the city continues to grow and develop, it's essential that community resources, such as gyms and recreational facilities, are available and inclusive for people of all ages and abilities. The success of events like the Tennessee Senior Olympics highlights the need for Nashville to prioritize senior-focused initiatives and programs that promote healthy aging and social connection.
About this story
Original reporting by NewsChannel 5 WTVF (CBS affiliate) . The Nashville surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit NewsChannel 5 WTVF (CBS affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 23, 2026 ·
Source: NewsChannel 5 WTVF (CBS affiliate) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? It was a foggy morning on the Fairview High track that brought out a whole bunch of driven people. It was the Tennessee Senior Olympics.The crew competing in one event just leapt out to me. There was newer athlete Sara Dutton."I was 71 when I did my first marathon!" she said.There was in-it-to-wi...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 23, 2026 by NewsChannel 5 WTVF (CBS affiliate) and curated for The Nashville readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Forrest Sanders at NewsChannel 5 WTVF (CBS affiliate). To learn more about how The Nashville selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Nashville, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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