Olympics 2024 in Paris France

 One hundred years ago, Paris France hosted the Summer Olympics.  The 2024 Olympics in Paris features athletes from two hundred countries with equal numbers of female and male competitors.  This world event unites us across continents, generations, languages, and political ideologies.

I think most of us admire athletes for their dedication and skill in their chosen sport. Those who will stand on the podium and hear their nation’s anthem are, of course, the most revered. But like the 1988 bobsled team from Jamaica,   these events leave us feeling invigorated by the human achievement of the underdogs as well. I am featuring four amazing older Olympians throughout this story.  In fact, I believe that there are many attributes of an Olympian that we can apply to robust and joyful aging.

Lorna Johnstone

a British equestrian, competed in the 1972 Munich Olympics at the age of 70. Her participation in the dressage events showcased not only her lifelong dedication to equestrian sports but also the unique nature of equestrian events, where the relationship between rider and horse can transcend age. Johnstone’s career is a testament to the deep bond and mutual understanding required in equestrian sports, and her Olympic journey inspires athletes to pursue their passions regardless of age.

Discipline, Mental Toughness, Focus

Before you scoff at my premise, I am not talking about feats of physical endurance, strength or agility, I think that the mindset of an athlete is what we need to age well.  The first quality is discipline.  Athletes train relentlessly and keep to a strict schedule to achieve their greatest potential. Olympians are mentally tough and focus like an osprey tracking its prey.  They are calm under pressure and able to recover from setbacks with laser focus, blocking out the distractions.  This mental conditioning of remaining alert and present to the moment crucial. The trope of retiring and sitting on a rocking chair till ‘your maker’ come calling  is not how we age.  Our brains need regular workouts to keep us in the game.

Ian Millar

a Canadian equestrian, holds the record for the most Olympic appearances by any athlete, having competed in ten Olympic Games from 1972 to 2012. At his final Olympic appearance in London 2012, Millar was 65 years old. Known as “Captain Canada,” Millar’s enduring presence in the sport of show jumping highlights his exceptional skill, consistency, and passion for equestrian sports. His career serves as a beacon of longevity and dedication, inspiring athletes across all disciplines.

Adaptability and Perseverance

I believe discipline, mental toughness, and focus apply to aging.  We can use our brain power to craft our longevity plan.  When, not if, we encounter setbacks, adaptability and perseverance will get us back on track.  Aging ain’t for sissies.  There will be unexpected challenges that blind side us as we age.  Be like an athlete, keep an open mind to problem solve and adjust to new challenges. Perseverance is your kryptonite. Dig deep into your soul and commit your energy to overcoming obstacles and landmines.

Oscar Swahn

a Swedish shooter, stands out as the oldest athlete to ever compete in the Olympic Games. Swahn first competed in the 1908 London Olympics at the age of 60, winning two gold medals and one bronze in shooting events. However, his most notable achievement came in the 1920 Antwerp Olympics. At the age of 72, Swahn competed in the team running deer double shot event, securing a silver medal. His incredible longevity and skill in shooting make him a legendary figure in Olympic history, demonstrating that precision and focus can endure even as the body ages.

Teamwork and Passion

Olympians represent their nation. The camaraderie is what I enjoy most when watching the games.  Competitors become teammates under the same flag. Athlete from other countries become friends through victory and defeat. There is something transcendent about the hugs and high fives after the competition has ended.  I see our aging journey the same way. Gone are the days of competing for promotions or keeping up with the Joneses.  Our final decades are a time embrace our team spirit, to pay forward to the younger generations in our nation and beyond our borders.  This team spirit can be mentoring, volunteering, and caring for others (to list a few of my favorites).  Today we are blessed with extra years to embrace our passion. What deep seated enthusiasm do you have?

Dara Torres

an American swimmer, is an exceptional example of an athlete competing at a high level across multiple decades. Torres made her Olympic debut in 1984 and competed in five Olympic Games, with her final appearance in Beijing 2008 at the age of 41. Although not as old as some other athletes mentioned, her success in a physically demanding sport like swimming highlights the possibility of maintaining elite performance levels well into one’s 40s. Torres won three silver medals in Beijing, bringing her total Olympic medal count to 12, a testament to her enduring skill and determination.

Humility

Most Olympians will leave Pairs without a medal. Rarely will an Olympian throw a tantrum after defeat. Olympians shake hands and hug it out.  Following the games, they will spend hours in mental anguish replaying their performance but at that moment of tremendous pain an athlete congratulates the winner.  The aging journey teaches us humility as well.  The knowledge that our number could be called next, should makes us humble.  None of us know what triumph or tragedy awaits us. Our challenge is to respond like an Olympian.