Kathy Jager is masters version of Rulon Gardner
W60 sprinter Kathy Jager of Arizona, were she a cat, has used up three or four lives now, athletically speaking. And like Rulon Gardner, the Olympic wrestling champ who recently survived a plane crash after losing a toe to frostbite some years earlier, Kathy knows triumph (Gateshead medals) and tragedy (an unfair doping suspension). Now GeezerJock editor Sean Callahan reports her latest challenge: “Kathy Jager, a W60 track and field athlete who lives in Glendale, Ariz., says masters sports saved her life. Late last year, she told me, she began to feel dizzy.”
Sean continues on his blog:
“After several visits to the hospital she was diagnosed with a collapsed artery from her heart. Doctors implanted a titanium stent. ‘I’m the bionic woman,” Jager says. Her artery had been almost completely blocked, and the doctors told her that most people would have had a heart attack under the circumstances. Her conditioning prevented that. Jager is back to feeling healthy and is starting to sprint again.”
7 Responses
Kathy, I’m glad that you’re feeling better, and after talking with you I know you’ll be ready to compete very soon! It’s a pleasure to have you as a teammate on our club.
Hey Kathy, A track meet without you is a bland one indeed.Hope to see real soon back out there kicking buts.
Kathy
Hang in there, baby. In my book you’re not only a bionic woman you’re a super-sonic woman.
Kathy, this certainly was news to me. Just know that our strength is in the Lord and He continues to deal with all our “heart issues”… I’m praying for you, especially Isaiah 12…. Let’s rejoice together in what He continues to do in our lives… Jeanne Daprano
Kathy, I always enjoy chatting with you at meets, sharing tips about training or technique. It’s no surprise to me that your condition didn’t affect you as it would “most people.” You’ve already proven that you’re one tough woman and a credit to Masters Track. I look forward to being on the track with you again soon! Karla from Canada.
I hope all continues well and I see you out competing soon.
– John
Kathy: I am very glad you are doing OK. Best wishes and come back soon.
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