Palm Desert Senior Games & Intl. Sports Fest Canceled For 2022

PALM DESERT, CA — The 2022 Palm Desert Senior Games & International Sports Festival hosted by Desert Recreation District and the City of Palm Desert has been canceled due to COVID, it was announced Wednesday.

The games, which had been scheduled for Feb. 1-6, were to include individual sports such as pickleball, track and field events, table tennis, nine-hole golf, three-point basketball, and team events including volleyball, soccer, softball, and three-on-three basketball.

"This decision was not made lightly, and the hosts apologize for any disappointment the athletes who compete, some year after year, and volunteers, staff, spectators, and sponsors may feel; however, due to the rapid rise in COVID-19 cases in recent weeks and days, it is believed that in the best interest of public safety, the most prudent course of action is to cancel this year’s games, especially in light of the vulnerable group who were registered to compete," a joint press release from Desert Recreation District and the City of Palm Desert reads.

Desert Recreation District had sent out a survey to registered participants last week to gauge the athletes' comfort level, and the decision was made to cancel indoor sports. But as COVID cases continued rising over the ensuing days, athletes were canceling due to health and safety concerns, according to officials.

"We are hopeful to be able to host the Palm Desert Senior Games & International Sports Festival again by next year, and we appreciate the public’s understanding in reaching this decision," the press release stated.

Athletes travel from across the U.S. and Canada to participate in the Palm Desert Senior Games & International Sports Festival, the first Senior Games of the year in California.

"The games promote healthy lifestyles through the spirited competition of sports and education while inspiring everyone to embrace health and enjoy the value of sports-related exercise," according to officials.

Learn more about future games and all activities and programs offered at MyRecreationDistrict.com.