In order to compete in the 2009 Summer National Games presented by Humana, athletes must be born before December 31, 1958.

The program for the Games consists of 18 medal sports (Archery, Badminton, Basketball, Bowling, Cycling, Golf, Horseshoes, Race Walk, Racquetball, Road Race, Shuffleboard, Softball, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Track & Field, Triathlon, Volleyball) and 7 demonstration sports (Equestrian, Fencing, Lawn Bowling, Rowing, Sailing, Soccer, Water Polo).