Des Moines Prepares to Host 2025 National Senior Games

Des Moines, Iowa, will host the 2025 National Senior Games presented by Humana from July 24 through August 4 as more than 12,500 athletes ages 50 and over are registered to compete in the Olympic–style event, featuring 25 sports held across venues in Greater Des Moines.

First held in 1987, the National Senior Games takes place every two years and is expected to generate more than $32 million in economic impact for the region. Competition is organized in five–year age brackets and athletes in most sports qualify by competing in State Senior Games the year prior.

“We are thrilled to welcome more than 12,500 athletes, along with their friends and family, to Des Moines for the National Senior Games,” said Greg Edwards, president and chief executive officer of Catch Des Moines. “As the largest qualified multi–sport event in the world for adults ages 50 and older, this event will bring incredible energy, excitement and economic benefit to our region. These athletes are a remarkable testament to active aging and lifelong commitment to sport. Hosting the National Senior Games is another proud milestone in our legacy of hosting major national events.”

There are special events throughout the week for the public to attend, including the Flame Arrival Ceremony and Mile for the Ages, both taking place July 25. The state will also celebrate Optimal Aging Day in Iowa on July 25, which will include interactive health and well-being activities, screenings, assessments and resources. The “Celebration of Athletes” will take place July 28, with a combination opening and closing ceremony celebrating National Senior Games athletes.

“More and more people over 50 are discovering the incredible benefits of physical activity and being part of the Senior Games community. We’re thrilled to see that growth reflected in the 2025 National Senior Games presented by Humana being the second largest in history,” said Susan Hlavacek, president and chief executive officer of the National Senior Games Association. “We are grateful for the planning support of Catch Des Moines, local government officials, emergency personnel and venue managers over the past two years and look forward to a safe and successful Games.”

Athletes from all 50 states and 12 countries will gather in Des Moines, with the oldest athlete set to compete being Irma Bond, 101, of North Carolina.

“At Humana, we believe in empowering older adults to live healthy, active lives,” said George Renaudin, president of insurance at Humana. “Our continued partnership with the National Senior Games Association reflects our deep commitment to celebrating the vitality and resilience of senior athletes. We’re honored to support their inspiring journeys and welcome them to the heart of the country.”