2019 National Senior Games Wins Outstanding Event from the New Mexico Hospitality Association

Nov. 6, 2019—The 2019 National Senior Games (NSG) won an Outstanding Event award at the Top HAT Awards Gala on Nov. 6 for its positive economic impact on the city of Albuquerque. The gala, hosted by the New Mexico Hospitality Association, recognizes exceptional work that elevates the travel, tourism, and lodging industry in New Mexico. 

“This event was a true One Albuquerque effort that included 5,500 volunteers and 21 venues across the city coming together to welcome a record-breaking number of competing athletes,” said Anna Sanchez, director of the City of Albuquerque’s Senior Affairs Department. “We are honored to have such an impactful event recognized by the New Mexico Hospitality Association.”

The NSG were held June 14-25, 2019, and boasted 1,516 athletes from New Mexico and a record-breaking 13,712 athletes overall—a 14 percent increase over the highest number ever recorded at an NSG event and a 30 percent increase over the previous year. According to a report by Visit Albuquerque, in FY19, there were 10.8 percent more lodging taxes collected than the previous year, for a total of more than $14.4 million, much of which has been attributed to the success of the games.

The NSG were nominated for the award by Visit Albuquerque who also served as a critical partner in making the games a success.