Par Maker

Theola Olion created a website for senior golf enthusiasts “where love meets the links.” Her own golfing prowess has earned her more than 30 trophies, plaques, and ribbons. (Image courtesy of Theola Olion)

Theola Starks Olion, ’73 AHS, combined online event registration with a dating app to create Senior Golf Dating Site (seniorgolfdatingsite.com). The portal enables mature golfers to “choose a golf date or golf buddy,” as well as promote golf events and interact with like-minded enthusiasts.

Olion first encountered golf as a student at Champaign’s Central High School but didn’t take to the links seriously until 1983, when she was laid off from General Motors and had time on her hands. “I took three lessons from a pro, bought clubs, and entered a tournament,” she says. “I came in next-to-last place.”

Still golfing at age 77, Olion has kept busy in retirement by improving her handicap. She’s amassed more than 30 trophies, plaques, and ribbons, and in 2019, she took the bronze in golf at the Tennessee Senior Olympics State Finals.

What gave you the idea to create this website? I didn’t see many couples on the golf course and envisioned golf as a unique first date. I wanted to create a way for senior golf enthusiasts to share the fairway and perhaps create lasting connections beyond the 18th hole.

How does it work? You become a member by paying the $10 monthly fee. Create your profile, and start searching. I’m based in Pikeville, Tenn.; however, members can choose where they would like to play anywhere in the U.S. They also can list their golf events for free. As an incentive to boost membership, I’m waiving the monthly membership fee through July 15.

Have you found love through the site? I don’t mix business with pleasure, and I’m not looking for a “particular person” right now. But I am looking to play golf!