Coco Crisp (right) greeted guests at first full family gathering at his Rancho Mirage estate.
, a Masters Hall of Famer, rode down a ramp Saturday in a spanking new electric cart, replacing a wheelchair. He had marked his 80th birthday three days earlier, and wasn’t expecting the scene that unfolded before him. Some 145 friends and family members, invited by his daughter
Pam Crisp, broke into “Happy Birthday” at grandson
Coco Crisp’s estate in Rancho Mirage, just south of Palm Springs. Coco, of course, is a 34-year-old Oakland A’s center fielder, who celebrated his own birthday Nov. 1. He moved Nick and wife Sheila into one of his homes about a year ago.
Stopping at the bottom of the backyard ramp, Nick held court. He greeted a long line of relatives and friends individually for more than a half-hour. Later, despite hip and other problems, he stood and swayed in a dance that brought joy to loved ones. Later, he thanked everyone, declaring himself one of the luckiest people alive. I was honored to witness the event, and my best shots
are posted here. Video highlights
are posted.
Nick gets hug from one of his 21 grandchildren and great-grandchildren at his party in Rancho Mirage, at a home provided by his ballplayer grandson.
3 Responses
Happy birthday to a wonderful friend. Nick inspired, and helped me get started in Masters Track. I’ll always consider him one of my favorite persons and one heck of an athlete.
Happy belated Birthday Nick- I have a couple of Newton starting blocks (which nick designed for those that may not know)still the best starting block in all of Track & Field. Looks like your Birthday was a Grand celebration !
Ken: Thank you for this coverage. I viewed every picture. Nick’s starting blocks are located all over Honolulu. He enjoyed several visits to Hawaii. The pictures reflect the Aloha spirit which he shares with everyone he meets. Nick’s sprint style neared perfection!
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