By Myra Bean

Ken Ellis of Batesville added seven more medals to his already impressive set after participating in the May 16-17 Senior Olympics held at Mississippi College in Clinton.

The 63-year-old is not about to give up as he is planning to participate in the 2009 World Games in Canada.

Even after right shoulder surgery, Ellis did not miss scheduled competitions but threw with his left arm.

He is back in fine form now as he placed first in the pole vault with a 6’6” jump and first in the hammer throw of 57 feet.

He was second in the discus throw for a distance of 109 feet.

He had four third-place medals in 100 meter dash in 16.00 seconds and 200 meter dash in 34.00 seconds. He was third in the long jump with an 11’3” jump and the triple jump of 24’.

His only fourth place showing was in the shot put of 26 feet.

Ellis has been participating in the senior sports since 1980 in Tennessee, Mississippi and around the world in World Games.

He is now working to compete in Tennessee and Arkansas later this year. The track and field events have been canceled for this year’s Mississippi State Games which will start June 20 which Ellis participated in past years.

The medal winner also helps the South Panola track and field team and this year received a trophy as an assistant coach.