Seasoned Athlete Returns With the Gold
Longtime villager Gloria Krug has participated in the USATF Masters – often known as the Senior Olympic games – on and off for many years. When she received an invitation to this year’s summer international games, to be held in Finland, the 91-year old Gloria regretfully discarded it, knowing that her finances wouldn’t permit her the extravagance of an overseas trip.
However, Gloria received a phone call shortly thereafter from USATF’s Chair of the Masters Track & Field Committee, Jerry Bookin-Weiner. Jerry insisted Gloria attend, due in part to a dearth of American competitors in their 90s. He went as far as to offer Gloria a full scholarship. Gloria thought, “If they’re that hard up, I better go.” Gloria soon received her plane tickets and the American uniform, and she made the long trip to Helsinki with the rest of the U.S. team, numbering close to 200.
Gloria competed in all six throwing events, winning gold in all of them. “I grew up a farm girl,” remembers Gloria. “Throwing and lifting come easy for me.” She also participated in two jumping events (long jump and triple jump). “I’m not a good jumper, but it helps my knees stay awake!” Gloria earned two silver metals in the jumping events. Gloria was away for two weeks, and when she returned home, she was surprised to see a sign from the Cross Keys maintenance team, welcoming her home.
The USATF Masters holds events every month, all over the U.S. In the summer months, they utilize university campus sport facilities and housing, since they’re often available. Gloria plans to travel to Massachusetts next month… then Kentucky a week later. Gloria certainly serves as an inspiration to many in our community who admire her strength, her common sense