Never Too Old to Chase Another Finish Line
At an age when many people believe their best years are behind them, Otto and JR are preparing for something extraordinary: competing at the 2026 IVF Va’a World Sprint Championships in Singapore at 82 and 83 years old.
Their story isn’t just about paddling. It’s about perseverance, purpose, friendship, and proving that aging doesn’t have to mean slowing down.
When asked if they ever imagined they would still be competing at the World Championships at this stage of life, both men offered humble responses.
JR explained that he was fortunate to be part of the first wave of older paddlers. As he aged, new age categories were added, allowing him to continue competing against athletes in his own age group.
Otto never really thought about it. “I was always into sports, and my first sport was paddling. I started racing when I was about 14 years old. Every year I tell myself this is the last time, but I still keep doing it.”
Many people fear aging because they associate it with decline. But neither Otto nor JR see it that way.
“I never feared aging,” says JR. “There are two ways to get to the top: 1) Be very good, or 2) Outlast everyone. I tried the first but never quite made it. Now method two is more attainable because I only need to beat other 80-year-olds.”
Otto sees aging as a natural progression through life’s stages. “When we’re young, we can’t wait to turn 18, finish school, get a driver’s license, finish college. Then life becomes about staying healthy and independent.”
At 82 and 83 years old, both men still train regularly. JR says simply, “I am addicted to the runner’s high. Training is its own reward. Winning is a bonus.”
For Otto, paddling has become much more than exercise. “It helps to have a hobby, and for me it happens to be outrigger paddling. We push each other, trying to keep up with the younger guys while staying in good health and shape.”
Both men also credit the paddling community for enriching their lives.
“We have a saying: the Ohana (family) of the Va’a (canoe),” says JR. “The support of the community has been a stabilizing influence for a long time.”
For Otto, simply being on the water provides peace. “Going paddling helps me put all my problems aside and enjoy the day.”
Neither journey has been easy. Two years ago, JR underwent major cancer surgery that resulted in the removal of half of one kidney. Soon afterward, he also had a knee replacement.
“The combination left me out of shape and very low on energy. I’m only now feeling like I’m making progress.”
Yet each time he questioned whether he could continue, a new opportunity appeared.
“First Brazil, now Singapore. Somehow I always get back at it.”
Otto admits there are moments when he questions whether it’s worth continuing.
“It’s getting difficult to get in and out of the boat. But when I sit in the boat, everything is quiet and peaceful, and I enjoy it.”
Perhaps the most powerful wisdom comes from what aging has taught them.
JR keeps a list titled “Things I Can No Longer Do Now That I Am 80.” Then he works to remove things from that list. “Age makes you thankful for all the good luck you’ve had.”
Otto believes adaptability is key. “As we age, life changes. We should be able to adjust and change as required.”
And when they’re out racing?
“I look like an old man on land,” JR says with a smile, “but put me on the water and I feel young again.”
For anyone who feels it’s too late to get healthy, start exercising, or pursue a new goal, both men have a message.
“I started paddling in my 40s,” says JR. “I kept getting faster until my 60s. Every stage has been rewarding.”
Otto adds, “Age is only a number. One should keep going as long as they can. You’re never too old to start something new.”
JR shared one final piece of advice:
“Life is about putting pages in the book. When an opportunity comes along, say yes. Live life with no regrets—you never know when it will be over.”
When friends ask what’s next, Otto says: “This is my last Worlds… unless they introduce an 85+ category.”
Their story reminds us that growing older doesn’t mean giving up. It means continuing to write new chapters, embrace new challenges, and prove that some dreams don’t have an expiration date.
Jari Love is a certified trainer and creator of the successful scientifically tested Get RIPPED!® series. You can learn more about Jari Love at www.jarilove.com. You can follow her on Facebook at @JariLoveFitness and at @rippedjari on Instagram.
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