Olga is flanked by coach Harold (left), Christa (right) and granddaughter Alesa Rabson, 23.
, an exceptional writer based in Vancouver, first contacted me about Canadian masters legend
Olga Kotelko in 2010. The resultant
New York Times Magazine piece was titled “The Incredible Flying Nonagenarian.” But Bruce didn’t stop there. He began research for a book on Olga (and interviewed me again this past April). Now the world is licking its chops for
“What Makes Olga Run? The Mystery of the 90-Something Track Star, and What She Can Teach Us About Living Longer, Happier Lives.” A
taste was served Sunday in Parade magazine, which
claims a circulation of 32.5 million and readership of 63 million. No matter the numbers, it led former USATF masters national chair
George Mathews to exclaim (via email): “Best publicity for our sport I have ever seen. No cost.” The article also mentions 2013 IAAF Best Master
Christa Bortignon and M70 legend
Harold Morioka, Olga’s coach. Olga is far from a glory hound, but I hope she’s eating up her latest moment in the sun. Bruce’s book is due out in mid-January.
6 Responses
Olga, you are truly inspiring! You have to teach me some hammer throw tricks next time I see you!
regards, Grant L.
Besides Olga and those mentioned here there are a few more of these unique people coming to mind like Earl Fee, Ron Robertson of New Zealand and Dan Bulkley who was well into his nineties when he still competed in xc-ski racing and track and field (including the steeplechase!)In Norway and at world masters xc ski champs there are several aged 80+ long timers zipping down the xc-ski trails. Exercise certainly can have a huge impact on the aging process and the quality and functionality of your life in your latter years. These people are the shining ambassadors for importance of lifelong exercise.
It was so much fun to see the article on Olga in the Parade! Love to watch her compete. And, she does it all with such joy! Runs, jumps, throws! Everything. For the fun of it!
I love the fact that Olga is so humble too. She once told me that she really looks up to her idol, Ruth Frith of Australia. Ruth is 104 and still competing.
Huffington Post interviews Olga:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/14/olga-kotelko-living-longer-track_n_4562788.html?utm_hp_ref=healthy-living
Bruce’s Jan. 12 article in The Globe and Mail of Toronto is part of promotional effort as well:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health-and-fitness/what-a-94-year-old-track-star-can-teach-us-about-aging/article16286101/
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