Rocky Mountain Senior Games 2018
Fit older adults are newsworthy. The media shows us a 78-year-old that’s a professional power lifter, the 68-year-old pole vaulter, an 80-year-old triathlete. They are an anomaly and worthy of showcasing. There are plenty of fit, recreational athletes, over the age of 65 that have no desire to be sought out for a news story. They don’t want their picture plastered on social media or the news. They don’t want to be asked questions or told they are an inspiration, they just want to do their activity and enjoy life.
A 30-year-old competing in triathlons wouldn’t make the news. The stories about fit, athletic, older adults are only newsworthy because of their age. They are outliers because what we’ve defined as “normal aging” is actually a deconditioned body. The people that maintain a level of fitness and continue to challenge and seek performance out of their bodies are seen as a phenomenon. It’s not a phenomenon, it’s training and conditioning.
By showcasing the achievements of these older athletes, we're not just celebrating outliers; we're rewriting the narrative of aging itself. Their stories offer a powerful antidote to the misconception that getting older equates to inevitable decline. Instead, they embody the truth that dedication to fitness and continuous challenge can defy the stereotypes of aging.
We must also recognize that not all seasoned athletes seek the spotlight or aspire to be placed on a pedestal in the media. For many, their passion lies in simply continuing to enjoy their sports and activities without getting public attention. Their joy stems from the act itself rather than the recognition it might garner.
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