Amazing 81-Year-Old Ironman Lew Hollander Still Competing

It has been said that the body is a temple.

Well, Lew Hollander's temple is 81 years old and still fit to compete in Ironman triathlons—a grueling sport consisting of a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2-mile run all in one day.

In 2011, Hollander became the oldest Ironman finisher at the World Championships in Kona, Hawaii, but even in the oldest age division, he has some strong competition.

Fellow 81-year-old France Cokan is just as fierce a competitor as Lew, and the two have been battling for years. Their rivalry is as friendly as it is ruthless, with both leaving everything they have in their aging bodies out on the course. The one who crosses the finish line at the bitter end takes home the spoils of victory.

What is the secret to their longevity? Quite simply, there is no secret. They will both be the first to tell you it's about putting in the effort to maintain your body, with special focus on diet and nutrition. 

Beyond just discipline, these men are true athletes. Their age makes them unique, not antique.

Ultimately, it doesn't matter the sport, whether it's triathlon or table tennis—rivalry makes the heart grow stronger.

For more Why We Watch click here.
Follow us on Twitter @WhyWeWatch.

Director/Producer: Chris Peterson

Editor: Fred Widland

Camera: Patrick Wright

Camera: Nicholas Teti


Special Thanks to:

Lew Hollander
France Cokan
Dave Scott
Ironman
World Triathlon Corporation
Peterson Bicycle - Renton, Wash.