Inspirational 92 year-old Burnham-On-Sea pensioner Arthur Gilbert took the limelight at the town’s spring triathlon on Sunday (April 21st).
Arthur – who became the world’s oldest triathlete in 2011 – completed a gruelling 250m swim, 10km bike ride and a 2.5km run in a time of one hour, 27 minutes and 48 seconds.
After completing the course, Arthur told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “It went really well, I enjoyed every minute of it and I’m delighted with my time.”
Burnham Swim and Sports Academy’s co-owner, Mark Cox-Conklin, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Arthur is such an inspiration. He’s such a nice guy and always so humble about taking part. To be completing triathlons at his age – and to be so fit and active – is just amazing.”
Arthur has now completed 25 triathlons in Burnham. He developed a passion for running when he was younger – he has been competing since the 1970s – but only took up the sport seriously 20 years ago and entered his first triathlon proper aged 68.
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 at his local pool every day.
The former helicopter engineer, who was crowned British duathlon champion in his age group seven times, has even received royal recognition for his outstanding achievements.
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.
Arthur, who is a member of local running group Burnham Harriers and was an Olympic torch bearer last year, attributes his extraordinary stamina to living a stress-free life, giving blood – and eating lots of bananas.
“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.”
“I have a lot of help and I’m motivated by my wonderful family and local supporters. They, along with regular training and the fact this is all for charity, help keep me going.”
