Lofton’s goals: M50 records in 400, long jump
Who knew? I just thought he liked to run fast. Turns out that James Lofton, a new M50 sprinter, has been eyeing Fred Sowerby’s world-age group record in the 400 like a hawk. And a profile today in The San Diego Union-Tribune by my colleague Don Norcross says James wants the M50 long jump record, too. They’ll have to wait until next year, however, since James is busy coaching the San Diego Chargers wide receivers. Masters champions James Chinn and Kettrell Berry contributed anecdotes to the article, and note the world-class photo.
The listed M50 world record in the long jump is 6.84 (22-5 1/4) by Tapani Taavitsainen of Finland in 1994. But James will have competition for that mark from a guy up the road in San Diego County — Willie Banks.
Willie turned 50 in March.
2 Responses
Ken, there is another pretty renowned triple-jumper – Jonathan Edwards – who happens to currently hold the open WR (60′ 1/4″) and the M35 WR (58’9 1/2″) in the TJ – that turned 40 on May 10th. Since the Brits are enthusiastic about track and Edwards is part of the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (representing the athletes for the 2012 Games)- the urge to compete might get the better of him! Think he might be able to extend any of the masters records as he progresses through the age groups? I was always fascinated that this guy – who wasn’t even six feet tall – could compete at such an elite level well into his mid-30’s in a grueling event like the triple jump.
This is a great article about a great man. I had the opportunity to get to know James when he was competing in Texas and was a member of the Dallas Masters Track and Field Club. I believe he can get both records. He’s that talented and dedicated. Too bad his work keeps him out of our national meets.
Wayne
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