AgeVenture News Service  Retired physician, Harding Kneedler of Davidson, North Carolina celebrated his 100th birthday in August 2000. This medical missionary, who spent time in Thailand, has turned to the athletic field to preserve his youth and health.
In 1996, at the age of 96, Dr. Kneedler competed in the Charlotte-Mecklenberg Senior Games for the first time. In his first games ever, he set records for his age group in the discuss, shot-put, running long jump, standing long jump, 100m dash, 200m dash and 1500m walk. That performance qualified him for the North Carolina State Games, where he set records in his age group in the discus, shot-put, 100m dash, 200m dash, and 1500m walk. Not too bad for a "rookie." Dr. Kneedler's performance at the State Games qualified him for the National Senior Games. Last summer, during one of his running events, Dr. Kneedler fell forward and landed on his knees. Instead of dropping out of the event, he rose to his feet and proceeded to win the race. This is a true example of his determination and vigor. At the age of 100, Dr. Kneedler is still participating in the Senior Games and has set a goal to compete in the 2001 National Senior Games. Gayla Woody of Charlotte, North Carolina, nominated Dr. Kneedler for the BlueCross BlueShield Ageless Heroes program which honors outstanding seniors, says BlueCross BlueShield CEO, Scott Serota. The lives of these Ageless Heroes, says Serota, serve as an inspiration to all generations. The Ageless Heroes Awards Program was created in 1998 to celebrate the spirit and vitality of the nation's seniors and to showcase Blue Cross and Blue Shield's commitment to healthy aging. Photo Credit: BlueCross BlueShield. |
