Aging involves a series of morphological and physiological changes that affect the functionality of the body's organs and systems. In this context, sports practice becomes fundamental for improving functionality, bone density, and mood. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in promoting sports among the elderly, with many retirees incorporating physical activity as an essential part of their daily lives.
Beyond the recreational and health aspects, the Vallès Occidental region boasts elderly athletes who maintain a competitive edge in their activities. Disciplines such as athletics and swimming have a long tradition in master categories, to which team sports like football, hockey, basketball, and handball have been added.
A prominent example is a former Olympic hockey player, who at nearly 81 years old, continues to play with the CD Terrassa 7x7 team and participates in international championships with the Spanish +70 national team. Last November, he even joined a European +80 team that played matches against England in Castelldefels and Terrassa. His activity is almost unique in Spain for his age group.
“"In life, everything is about competing. And you always want to win. The difference is that now losing doesn't affect you as much."
Another case is that of an Olympic swimmer, 88 years old, who competed in Melbourne 1956 and Rome 1960 with his country's water polo team. After more than forty years without swimming, he resumed the activity at 67 years old due to a family challenge. Since then, he has won multiple gold medals in European and World Championships, including the continental title in 800, 400, and 200 meters freestyle and 200 breaststroke last year. He trains almost daily at the Atlètic and CN Terrassa facilities.
“"Most people my age only think about resting, watching television, and waiting to die. And I say, why should I die?"
An athlete of 78 years, residing in Matadepera and a member of the Unión Atlética Terrassa, started running at 57 years old after early retirement. He has achieved five medals in European and World Championships in trail, mountain, and vertical ascent races. His routine includes 15 to 20 kilometers daily and a weekly climb to La Mola, highlighting the role of sports in overcoming difficult moments, such as colon cancer.
Finally, a resident of Matadepera who recently turned 96 years old, maintains remarkable sports activity. He plays tennis three days a week at CD Terrassa, practices pétanque two days a week at the senior center in Matadepera, and occasionally plays golf. Football was his great passion, playing as a goalkeeper for various city teams until he was 82 years old.
