Georgetown Seniors Walk Toward 600-Mile Milestone in Local Club

A group of seniors in Georgetown County, South Carolina, has walked a combined distance of nearly 600 miles under the name Golden G.O.A.T.s. The club operates on a schedule of three days per week, with members covering routes of up to three miles on each outing. The group’s stated objective is to maintain physical fitness while fostering social connection among its participants.

Virginia Holladay, a member of the group, joined the club to combine her personal interest in walking with her desire for social engagement. She described the group’s acronym as a positive alternative to older terminology. “I’ve always enjoyed walking. I wanted to be able to be among people because I like people,” Holladay said. She added that the name provides a healthy benefit for the group, noting that members prefer not to be referred to as old goats.

Aging Untold host Amy O’Rourke observed that the social dynamics within the group are as important as the physical exercise. She stated that the interaction between members, combined with being in nature and getting fresh air, creates a comprehensive health benefit. O’Rourke emphasized that the group addresses multiple aspects of well-being simultaneously through their shared walks.

John Kester has walked nearly 600 miles with the group and earned the title Iron G.O.A.T. for his participation. He credited the group for providing a consistent social environment where conversation is continuous during walks. “Talks continuously while we’re walking. We’ve gotten to learn about each other, so it’s a good social get-together,” Kester said. O’Rourke also noted that setting and achieving specific goals, such as mileage targets, provides members with a sense of purpose and motivation for future walks.