Richard Hutchison, who prefers to be called “Hutch” has been involved with the Senior Olympics Program since 1993. He has continuously qualified in a variety of events and has gone on to represent Santa Fe and the State of New Mexico at four National Games. Although, at the age of 77, “Hutch” has had to live with a variety of health problems, he continues to struggle to participate in Senior Olympics. At the local level, he participates in swimming, table tennis, darts, eight ball pool, horseshoes and race walk, well beyond the 10-event limit, as set by New Mexico Senior Olympics. In recent years, however, his medical problems have been exacerbated. One condition, dementia, was determined in 2002 and he is required to take strong medications to somewhat control the symptoms. Also, in spite of the fact that he has a protruding spinal disc that is pinching nerves in his lower body, he continues to participate in race walking. Hutch is a walking and talking inspiration to his peers and all Senior Olympians.
        To nominate your Senior Olympic athlete for this award contact your local senior program coordinator or NMSO at 575-623-5777.