A ninety year-old Burnham-On-Sea pensioner has this week been named the world’s oldest triathlete.
Arthur Gilbert, who lives in Berrow Road, has been handed the title by The World Records Academy, having completed his 40th triathlon earlier this year.
The incredible pensioner was awarded an MBE for his charity work in 2008 and was also sent a letter by Prince Charles congratulating him on his triathlons.
Arthur attributes his incredible stamina to living a stress-free life, giving blood, and eating plenty of bananas.
He says: “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.”
“‘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.”
He added: “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 when I reached the age limit. People think it decreases your performance in life but it doesn’t.”
Arthur visits Burnham Swim and Sports Academy three times a week to keep in tip-top condition. “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,” he says.
Arthur with Burnham Swim and Sports Academy’s owners Mark and Sara Cox-Conklin earlier this year
