Flo Meiler, 91, Holds Two World Records in Track

Flo Meiler holds two world records in track and field at age 91. The records cover the pole vault and the triple jump. Meiler lives in Shelburne, Vermont, where gold and silver medals from her competitions fill her home.

Meiler began competing at age 60. Her friend Barbara Jordan persuaded her to enter the long jump at the Vermont Senior Games. Jordan died ten years ago, but Meiler said she still misses her deeply. That first competition hooked Meiler, and she has remained active in the sport for three decades.

At 91, Meiler continues to train and compete. She acknowledged that her jumps are not as far as they were in previous years, but she enjoys the activity. She said she feels warm inside when other athletes approach her to say she has inspired them. Meiler described that interaction as a wonderful feeling.

University of Vermont freshman Jason Lei told Meiler he wants to move like her when he is older. Meiler said his comment made her feel like she was 60 again. Her husband of 65 years, Gene Meiler, said she impressed him, which is why he married her. Gene Meiler noted that she continues to impress him today.

Meiler manages her slowing pace by adding extra exercises when she feels her speed drop. She attributed her health and talent to God. She said she is very happy to keep running the track.

Meiler remains active in the senior track and field community. Her two world records stand as benchmarks for athletes in her age group. She continues to compete in local and regional events in Vermont.