She shuttled Christopher and Christina to football practice, piano lessons and numerous other activities. Anglin had no time to pursue her own interests. But five years ago, after both children had left home, Anglin, who just turned 60, had one delightful thought: It's my time.

She joined a gym and became fanatical about lifting weights. Then she started participating in the Durham Senior Games, focusing first on the basketball shootout and then adding bowling and the 100-, 200- and 400-meter track races.

Just last month, she won a gold medal in each of those events and will compete in the state games in September. Anglin is looking forward to the stiff competition she'll face in the 60-64 age category.

"I just like being active," she said. "I just like doing things that are odd. When people say I can't do things at a certain age, I say, 'I can.' "

Anglin works out several times a week to keep herself in shape and to get ready for competition. She usually goes to the gym before sunrise to lift weights. Then she participates in a local bowling league to sharpen her bowling skills.

Although she doesn't have a track coach, Anglin has been resourceful in procuring instruction. She watched the track team at Duke University train to get tips and she has gotten a referral for some advice from a physical education professor at N.C. Central University.

"There is always somebody to help you if you are willing to ask," Anglin said.

Anglin doesn't regret waiting until her senior years to get physically fit and active. She said her children were worth the time and energy she invested in them. But she is also excited that her new interests have given her better health and a richer life.

Here Anglin, who is an ambassador for the Durham Senior Games, talks more about her activities and why others should get involved:

Q. Why did you decide to fill your newfound "me time" with exercise and sports when your children first left home?

It is good for my health and a good way for me to keep my physical activity going. Exercise is a mental activity as much as it is a physical one.

Q. What changes have you noticed in your body since you start exercising regularly?

I stopped smoking and I sleep better. I have more energy. When I go to Beyond Fitness gym, I feel like I can move the world.

Q. Why do you enjoy the Senior Games so much?

The Senior Games are a prime opportunity to participate in sports, arts, social activities and make new friends and renew old friendships. It is also exciting to me to see 80- and 90-year-old people participating. It inspires me to know that if they can participate, I can too.

Q. What would you say to other seniors who feel that they are fit enough to join in the Senior Games?

Life is too short for senior citizens to just do nothing. So come on out next year and join me and other Durham residents in the Durham Senior Games. There is something that everybody can participate in. If nothing else, let's have fun.