Cycling into Old Age

John Woodburn still racing aged 71

I often race against John Woodburn (b.1937), John was National 25 mile time trial champion in 1961. He is still racing, 47 years later at the age of 71. John is one example of many who are able to keep cycling into old age. He regularly breaks the hour for a 25 mile time trial, sometimes by several minutes. His times are impressive for a cyclist of any age. But, to get his times at the age of 71 is doubly impressive. John holds many age related records. Aged 70, he set a time of 21.48 for a 10 mile TT. (Men’s solo age records)

The good thing about cycling is that it is relatively low impact on joints and so makes an excellent form of exercise for those who might find walking / running difficult. Another local rider, who I often see out is Ken Lansbury of Oxford City RC. Ken is in his 80s (but doesn’t look it); we often seem him riding to help out at races.

I hope I will still be cycling into my 80s….

Jeannie Longo - Aged 49

Worth mentioning Jeannie Longo, who aged 49, has booked her place at the Beijing Olympics with victory in the French National trials. She has competed in every Olympics since women were admitted.
Do you know of any other interesting stories of older people  who keep cycling?

check out: Just Williams - observations of senior citizen on cycling