Retired basketball coach Merle Gore and a surprised Melba Phillips captured free throw shooting gold medals in the NW La. District Senior Olympics.

Gore, who fashioned dominate teams at Trinity Heights Christian Academy, provided the district games with a portable goal to be used in Bossier Civic Center during the district’s opening ceremonies and health expo, proceeded to reel off seven of 10 free tosses to dominate men’s play. Phillips, who used an underhanded shooting technique reminiscent of Rick Barry, matched Gore’s effort to beat Willie Mae Joiner by a basket, 7-6, in the women’s division. Phillips, appeared genuinely surprised by her accomplishments, was cheered on by her partners from the Country Diamond dance team.

Free Throw Results

Women

50-54 Debbie Alexander Gold, Sheilia Hunter Silver.

55-59 Dianne Lewis Gold, Linda Knighton Silver. Joyce Freeman and Dorathea Stone Bronze each.

60-69 Melba Phillips Gold, Willie Mae Joiner Silver, Gloria Griffin Silver and Betty Dark Bronze each.

70-74 Emily Smith Gold, Marge Short Silver.

Men

55-69 Merle Gore Gold, Tim O’Laughlin Silver.

70-79 Les Brosset Gold, Curtis Cooper Silver, Gerry Robichaux Bronze.

80+ Henry Ward Gold, Dick Hainey Silver.