Vantage Point Residents Shine at the Maryland Senior Olympics 2024
August 9, 2024
Pictured: Les Gesell(Left) andBrian Gwaltney, Fitness Coordinator for Residences at Vantage Point(Center) David Vasholz(Right)
At Residences at Vantage Point, our community is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our residents. On Sunday, August 4, two of our distinguished residents, Mr. David Vasholz and Mr. Les Gesell, competed in the over-80 division of the shot put competition at the 2024 Maryland Senior Olympics held at Howard Community College. Their dedication to fitness and competition serves as an inspiration to us all.
David Vasholz Defends His Maryland Senior Olympics Title
Mr. David Vasholz, a seasoned competitor, once again demonstrated his prowess by defending his 1st place title. Last year, he secured the gold medal with a throw of 7.74 meters. This year, he surpassed his previous record with an impressive throw of 8.35 meters, solidifying his position as a top contender in the over-80 division. His victory qualifies him for the 2025 National Senior Games, which will be held in Des Moines, Iowa next summer. Although Mr. Vasholz has represented Residences at Vantage Point for the past two years, his history of participation in the Maryland Senior Olympics extends beyond his time with our community.
When asked about his plans for the upcoming national event, Mr. Vasholz humorously replied, “I’ll have to consult with my executive secretary.” His dedication to training year-round has clearly paid off, and we eagerly anticipate his performance at the national level if he decides to compete.
Les Gesell’s Impressive Debut
Joining Mr. Vasholz in the competition was Mr. Les Gesell, who participated in the Maryland Senior Olympics for the first time. Despite being new to the event, Mr. Gesell put forth a strong performance, securing 5th place with a throw of 6.35 meters. Mr. Gesell, an avid biker, exerciser and tap dancer, saw the games as an exciting opportunity to challenge himself further. His commitment to fitness is evident in his regular participation in our advanced exercise classes and weekly hikes with our hiking group.
Although Mr. Gesell did not qualify for the National Senior Olympics this year, his enthusiasm and determination are commendable. We are confident that with continued training, he will achieve even greater success in future competitions.
The Spirit of Competition at Residences at Vantage Point
At Residences at Vantage Point, we celebrate the spirit of competition and the pursuit of excellence at every stage of life. For example, our community recently came together to commemorate the 2024 Summer Olympics, with Mr. Vasholz having the honor of carrying the torch during the opening ceremony. Events like these not only showcase the physical capabilities of our residents but also foster a sense of camaraderie and pride within our community.