- May 1, 2024
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Doreen Chase hopes she can finish her softball career as a World Games gold medalist this year. Photo by Jeff Dawsey
Even in her 50s, Chase still boasts of being a pretty fast sprinter after hitting the ball. Photo by Jeff Dawsey
Chase has primarily played shortstop for her World Games softball team. Photo by Jeff Dawsey
A young Chase (left back row, next to the coach) Courtesy photo
Palm Coaster Doreen Chase has journeyed to three continents in the last 12 years, trying to win a World Games Fastpitch Softball championship. Next month, she will return to the land down under for what might be her final attempt at a gold medal.
Having finished with bronze in Canada (2005), Australia (2009) and Italy (2013), Chase, 53, hopes she can complete her conquest and call it a lifelong career at this year’s World Master Games from April 21-30 in Auckland, New Zealand.
“It would be a huge accomplishment,” said Chase, who says her first bronze medal is the biggest accomplishment in her life of competition thus far. “If I get gold, it would be a perfect exit.”
She didn’t have any expectations 12 years ago as a first-time World Gamer. But, after getting so close on three consecutive trips, Chase says she would gladly accept silver — or even bronze again — but neither is a focus.
“Gold is what I’m most looking forward to on this trip,” Chase said. “I can’t wait to see some of my friends and the New Zealand scenery, but winning gold what I’m ultimately striving for.”
Since joining a World Games softball team that consists of American and Canadian players throughout both countries, Chase has enjoyed many worldwide friendships along the way, including a special bond with Aussies. Almost all of the Australian softball team flew to America to attend her wedding.
Chase began playing softball at 6 years old, among other sports. But only softball stuck with her. After a little league, middle, high school and college career, Chase found other avenues — such as Flagler County co-ed softball — to maintain her sports addiction.
When she began her softball career at the World Games, Chase says she experienced butterflies for the first time in a long time.
“The excitement was overwhelming and still is,” she said. “I don’t usually get those.”
Chase constantly works to sustain a healthy lifestyle in order to compete as an all-around player on the field. She spends a lot of time at the gym, playing softball and even skiing.
Now, in her 50s, Chase knows her World Games career is drawing to a close. When asked in an article four years ago if she would compete this year, she said she would, if she was physically able. If Chase can’t win gold this year, she has not given up the possibility of making a potential fifth run at a title.
“You never say never,” Chase said. “But the older you get, the body parts don’t move as well. Fortunately, I feel good, and, after four years, if I’m able, we’ll see.”
