Dan Fazekas, a resident at Glenaire, recently put the pedal to the metal at the North Carolina Senior Games, winning first place in cycling’s 1-mile, 5K, and 10K events and riding away with three gold medals.
The North Carolina Senior Games is a beloved statewide tradition that celebrates health, wellness and friendly competition for adults age 50 and older. For many, it’s not just about competition but about connection, encouragement and the joy of staying active at every stage of life.
For Dan, competing in three races back-to-back was a true challenge. He admits it was tiring — but the thrill of crossing each finish line made every mile worth it. Having participated in the Senior Games since 2012, he was proud to share the moment with his daughter cheering from the sidelines and Glenaire’s Wellness Director, Sheri Sampson, there to watch him pedal into victory.
After years of running, Dan switched to cycling for a gentler challenge on his joints that still kept him moving. One of his favorite memories is a 118-mile ride with his daughter from Currituck Beach Lighthouse to Ocracoke Lighthouse off the coast of North Carolina, an experience that blended adventure and connection.
At Glenaire, Dan is an active member of The GlenGears, a resident cycling group that rides trails across the Cary–Raleigh area. On average, he rides 15 to 20 miles about three times a week, often along the Tobacco Trail, a converted rail corridor from Route 64 to Durham that’s now a scenic path for cyclists and walkers alike.
Before retirement, Dan enjoyed a 43-year career as a chemical engineer. Since moving to Glenaire in March 2024, he’s continued to stay active while exploring new hobbies like painting — even creating a watercolor of himself cycling. He also enjoys community theater performances, fitness classes and nearly daily gym visits. “This is the life,” he says with a smile.
Dan encourages others to try something active, even if they don’t own a bike. Glenaire offers indoor cycling classes with scenic virtual rides through Italy, forests and mountain trails. “You go at your own pace, make friends and stay active. No expensive gear required,” he says.
And Glenaire isn’t the only Kintura community with standout Senior Games participants. Across Kintura’s communities, residents — and even team members — are embracing the same spirit of wellness, camaraderie and fun. At Well-Spring, Dot Sowerby, 91, has competed nationally and holds the world record for the half marathon in her age group. Dr. Dick Rosen, 95, still competes each year and often wins his age division. Frank Cashwell, in his 80s, competes annually, and Sid Cutbill was a longtime table tennis champion who represented the community for years.
At Scotia Village, Greg Hutchinson, Director of Maintenance, also brought home gold in disc golf this year — a perfect example of how wellness runs deep among both residents and team members.
Together, these accomplishments highlight the heart of Kintura, made up ofcommunities where residents and team members are encouraged to stay active, pursue their passions and support one another every step of the way.
Through Dan’s story and others like it, current and future residents see what’s possible: thriving, exploring and living life to the fullest at every age.
By Jessica Ford
Kintura Content Specialist