Living a healthy lifestyle into one’s golden years has all sorts of benefits. For Russ Sagret and Susan Sagret, continuing athletics is one and the same.
QUEBEC CITY – Living a healthy lifestyle into one’s golden years has all sorts of benefits. For Russ Sagret and Susan Sagret, continuing athletics is one and the same.
The Canmore athletes competed at the Canada 55+ Summer Games at the end of August in Quebec City, where Russ (60+) won gold medals in the javelin and discus and bronze medals in 50-metre and 100m dash, and Susan (60+) took home silver medals in javelin and the 50m dash.
Training around the mountainous Canmore, a dream playground for athletes, the pair said being around like-minded people who are committed to a balanced, active and healthy lifestyle is a key motivator in their fitness journey.
“You have your own motivations, but the team aspect can also be counted on,” said Russ, in an email. “And you get wrapped up in cheering for people from the other zones or provinces too.”
There are more variables to consider as one continues sport at a Masters level and beyond. Injuries, for example, can take longer to recover.
Susan came back from injury to medal after pulling a hamstring in the 100m dash at last year’s provincial competitions in Brooks.
“We have to admit that competing at the national levels when you are in your 60s, it takes a lot more training and dedication than it ever did when we were in our 20s and could ‘just do it,’” said Russ. “To be ready for the summer’s competitions, we have to stay fit all the time.”
Russ added that using chiropractic, physio, nutritionist, and other services has helped them continue to do more of what they love to do beyond the track.
“We do a lot of different things now to stay fit because you can’t just focus on one thing like sprinting,” said Russ. “Wear and tear will get you too. Canmore is the best place in the world for this. Four seasons of fun all just by walking out your front door.”
