90-year-old places third in hammer throw event
Local Senior Olympic legend Earl Burch captured another medal at the National Senior Olympics presented by Humana held in Des Moines, Iowa.
The gathering of more than 12,000 athletes age 50-and-above was held July 24 through August 4. It was the second largest Senior Games in history by competitors.
The 90-year-old Burch competed in the 90-94 age division in the shot put and hammer throw. He qualified at the state level last fall in the Georgia Golden Olympics held in Warner Robins.
Burch finished third in the hammer throw earning a medal after recording a distance of 50’6”. J.D. Brockman of Missouri won the event with a mark of 63’1.48”. The second-place distance was 60’4.02”.
Burch placed fifth in the shot put with a heave of 21’3.25” to trail Brock-man’s winning distance of 24’7.28”. The distances for second through fourth were 23’2.74”, 22’6.87” and 21’5.87”.
Burch trains year around to stay active, healthy and prepared. He was commended by many onlookers at the event for his accomplishments receiving high fives, love and support from young and old.
He was accompanied by friends Rowdy, Sarah and Ethan Eunice. All can be inspired by his example of commitment, discipline and dedication.
