Pensacola Local News & Breaking Updates | NewsWK
2026 Senior Games
Last updated:
City of Pensacola
Source: City of Pensacola — News Flash (official press release). Read the original notice.
Meet Larry Draeger.
Some athletes chase trophies. Others simply love the game so deeply that the trophies follow them home. For Larry, bowling has been a lifelong companion, steady as the polished wood of the lanes and the familiar sound of pins colliding.
On November 30, 2025, Larry was honored as the 2024 Florida Senior Games Male Athlete of the Year, recognizing decades of excellence, perseverance, and passion for competition.
Larry first stepped onto the lanes in 1954 and began competing in leagues and tournaments just two years later. In 1979, his bowling career followed him through a distinguished U.S. Navy service, where he rose to become Navy’s top Master Chief selectee and competed for 18 years in the Navy World Championships, earning five military championship titles.
After retiring from the Navy in 1991, Larry shifted his focus to the Florida Senior Games, qualifying for the state competition every year since. In 2011, he made history by rolling a perfect 300 game, becoming only the second athlete ever to do so in the Florida Senior Games. Today, even with two shoulder replacements, he continues to compete with the same determination that has defined his entire journey.
Larry’s recognition as Athlete of the Year celebrates more than medals. It honors a lifetime of commitment, resilience, and love for the game. As the Senior Games return this September 2026, athletes like Larry remind us that competition has no age limit and that it’s never too late to chase greatness.
Pensacola looks forward to welcoming participants back to the lanes, fields, and courts for another season of inspiring performances.
Let’s Ask Larry.
Question: Why do you still compete?
Answer: “Because every year the Senior Games feels like a reunion and a revival all at once. I’ve built friendships across the country, and there’s nothing better than reconnecting with old friends while welcoming new ones. Competing in five year age groups keeps the playing field fair, and stepping up to the line each year reminds me that I’ve still got it.”
Question: What are the top mistakes you see new bowlers make?
Answer:
- Throwing too hard
- Trying to curve the ball
- Breaking courtesy: you should always wait for the bowler to your right or left to bowl first.
Question: After 2 total shoulder replacements, what advice do you have for someone recovering from an injury?
Answer: “Be content where you are, and focus on getting well. Physical therapy is an absolute must. Be patient and give your body and mind time to recover.”
2026 Senior Games
Click or tap here to visit the 2026 Pensacola Senior Games website.
