October proved that age is irrelevant when it comes to taking on athletic feats at a high level. Look no further than Tom Hairabedian, who is competitive diving at 93 years old, and Max Downham, who completed his first marathon at the age of 81. Here’s a look at those guys and others who made Purpose2Play’s top stories from last month.
5. Former UFC fighter Matt Hughes honors nurses who cared for him
Retired two-time UFC welterweight champion Matt Hughes, 43, had two very important women in his corner after his truck was struck by a train in June in Montgomery Country, Ill.
Yes, his wife and their daughters were bedside following the accident, but it was HSHS St. John’s Hospital ICU nurses Ashley Hull and Megan Simpson who also helped him recover.
That’s why Hughes’ friend, Tony Zucca, nominated Hull and Simpson for the DAISY nurse award, which is given to a deserving nurse from St. John’s every month to recognize his or her efforts in providing the best care and compassion possible. [Read more]
4. Chicago Marathon 2017: 81-year-old completes his first marathon
What if rather than looking back on our glory days, we look forward to them? Max Downham is showing that is possible. The 81-year-old just ran his first 26.2-mile race on Sunday at the Chicago Marathon, because why not wait until you’re in your 80s to cross off a bucket list item most people half your age don’t dare to attempt? [Read more]
Tom Hairabedian making a splash.
3. Paralyzed dog set to “run” Chicago Marathon with owner
Meet Gordon, a 2-year-old Miniature Doberman who is partially paralyzed, but will be covering miles in Sunday’s Chicago Marathon.
Dogs aren’t allowed on the course, but race organizers have made an exception since his owner, Janet Turner, 55, will be carrying him in a backpack as she takes on her fifth marathon.
This isn’t some publicity stunt. It’s a heartwarming effort to raise money for Marley’s Mutts, which rescues, trains and re-homes “death row dogs” in California. [Read more]
2. Still making a splash at 93, meet masters diver Tom Hairabedian
Even at 93 years old, Tom Hairabedian is diving head-first into competition. Quite literally.
The oldest masters level diver in the world, known as “Dr. Dive,” began competing at 17 years old, and though he’s slowed down a bit, he’s still performing dives most people decades younger wouldn’t even dream of attempting. [Read more]
1. Rob Gronkowski surprises 7-year-old Make-A-Wish recipient
If you’re a New England Patriots fan, what could be better than spiking a football with Rob Gronkowski?
Thanks to Make-A-Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island, 7-year-old Ryan Freeny had that chance in early September, according to the Melrose Free Press.
