MARS - The arena was packed with spectators. The competitors were pumped and ready to roll. The Olympic torch was displayed prominently, and there was even a chorus to provide music.

The locale for all this sports-related hoopla was the Alzheimer's wing at LAS/St. John Specialty Care Center on Wittenberg Way.

It was the first of a month's worth of track and field-related competitions honoring the National Senior Games, slated to take place June 3 through 18 in the Pittsburgh area.

Pairs raced against the clock in wheelchair heats along a course with hairpin turns and short straightaways that prevented flat-out flying.

At the end of the day, it was a tie for first place. Caroline Schmeidlin in the seat and activities assistant Althea Goldie as the pusher shared glory with Betty Scarbough as rider and activities assistant Beth Burk providing foot power.

Taking first place in the independent class was resident Helen MacKenzie, self-propelling her wheelchair around the course to wild cheers from the audience.

"We're doing this in support of the Senior Olympics (Games)," said volunteer coordinator Ruth Pfeiffer.

Every Monday in May, the residents of the Alzheimer's wing will gather for a bit of friendly competition. Next Monday, the hurdles are on the program; to be followed by the 400-yard dash and decathlon as May progresses toward opening day of the real deal in early June.

As for the Olympic torch on hand, it was created by the residents of the wing and will travel to 14 other nursing homes in the area before heading on to the Petersen Events Center on the University of Pittsburgh campus. The torch will be displayed during the various games being played in the sports center.

Tony Walters, with his wheelchair decked out with flags he helped place, was pleased with the event and came in third in the pairs competition.

"This is a good thing and I had a good time," he said.