World’s oldest triathlete Arthur Gilbert, 90, continues to swim, run and bike-ride

By
Gareth Finighan

Last updated at 9:34 PM on 28th December 2011

Super-fit pensioner Arthur Gilbert prefers the swimming pool to the bingo hall – because at the age of 90 he is the world’s oldest triathlete.

While most people his age prefer a gentle stroll, since 1989 Mr Gilbert has raced in more than 40 of the gruelling events, which are made up of a 500 metre swim, a 12-mile bike ride and a three-mile run.

He developed a passion for running when he was younger – he has been competing since the Seventies – but only took up the sport seriously 20 years ago entering his first triathlon proper aged 68.

Still in the running: Mr Gilbert began jogging when in his 50s - but didn't start competing in triathlons until 20 years later

Still in the running: Mr Gilbert began jogging when in his 50s – but didn’t start competing in triathlons until 20 years later

And despite his age, he sticks to a rigorous training regime, going to the gym three times a week, cycling 25 miles on Sundays and swimming 50 lengths of his local pool every day.

The former helicopter engineer, crowned British duathlon champion in his age group seven times, has even received royal recognition for his outstanding achievements.

In the swim: Mr Gilbert has taken part in 40 triathlons and is now in training for his 41st

In the swim: Mr Gilbert has taken part in 40 triathlons and is now in training for his 41st

Awarded an MBE for his charity work
over 35 years, he was also sent a letter by Prince Charles
congratulating him on his previous triathlons and wishing him luck in
future races.

The granddad,
from Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset, attributes his extraordinary stamina to
living a stress-free life, giving blood – and eating lots of bananas.

He said: ‘I started taking it all seriously when I was 68 – I was a bit late getting started so I’ve spent the years ever since then trying to make up for it.

He can handle it: Mr Gilbert said the fact that his efforts raise money for charity keeps him motivated

He can handle it: Mr Gilbert said the fact that his efforts raise money for charity keeps him motivated

‘The secret is staying stress-free, being happy, doing charity work and being positive.

‘I don’t drink or smoke and have regular check-ups. I also have a very balanced diet with lots of fruit for breakfast which helps tremendously – I love nuts and bananas.

‘Some of it is down to giving blood. The old blood goes out, the new comes in to replace it and rejuvenates you.

‘I’ve donated 45 pints of blood altogether since I was 51 and only stopped because I reached the age limit. People think it decreases your performance in life but it doesn’t.

Time to relax: The 90-year-old does find some time to take it easy

Time to relax: The 90-year-old does find some time to take it easy – despite going to the gym three times a week, cycling 25 miles on Sundays and swimming 50 lengths of his local pool every day.

‘I have to work really hard at keeping fit. Being disciplined and going out and doing it even when you don’t feel like it is the key to success.

‘The training is the hardest part and it’s almost a relief at the finishing line.’

Mr Gilbert, currently in training for his next triathlon in April when he will be aged 91, started running in earnest during the 1980s but has entered races since the 70s.

In his long life he has had to overcome the loss of his son David and wife Mary, known to family and friends as Betty, to cancer and has himself recovered from pneumonia.

Mr Gilbert, a member of local running group Burnham Harriers, added: ‘I have a lot of help and I’m motivated by my wonderful family.

‘They, along with regular training and the fact this is all for charity, help keep me going.

‘I raise money for Musgrove Leukaemic Group Somerset which is really close to my heart. People are really generous and I really appreciate all their support.

‘I must be the world’s oldest triathlete – I’ve never met anyone else still doing it at my age.’

A Guinness World Records spokesman said: ‘We don’t currently have a record on file for the category of oldest triathlete, so we would be interested in anyone who believes they may lay claim to the title.’

 

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You’re fabulous Grandad…..but really, lose the speedos!

Incredible, I’m 61 and very knackered, its worn me out pressing the green arrows!!.

well done but he needs to invest in a pair of shorts – seriously.

OMG im 26 and i couldnt do all this, well done to this man, very inspirational 🙂

Well done Mr Gilbert. You certainly don’t look anywhere near 90 and you put some of us younger folk to shame……well I for one will keep Mr Gilbert in mind when i am tempted to give up on my new year resolution to get fitter.

Inspirational.

inspire me. well done. you are someone i would certainly call GREAT man.

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