Lifelong Learning student at Sinclair and the 5th fastest man in the United States. Johnson is not your average student-athlete. At the prime age of 74, Johnson is considered to be “The Fastest Man in the Midwest”.
Johnson was first introduced to track and field during his high school years but was reintroduced to the sport back in 2005.
“I was out on the tennis court and a few guys who were track stars came by and noticed my talent. Even though I haven’t ran track since high school they said I should come out and run. I’ve been competing ever since” Johnson states.
There are many things an athlete must do to stay in tiptop shape and compete at a high level. Proper diet, exercise, conditioning, and stretching are a few of the basics that Johnson keeps high on his priorities. Although he rarely falls victim to his sweet tooth, the assortment of classes Johnson currently takes surely cancels out the occasional dessert every now and then.
Here at Sinclair, Johnson has taken over 250 classes over the span of 14 years. Currently he is enrolled in water aerobics, tennis, and strength conditioning. Cycling, yoga, and core training are a few others that he’s used in the past to help him stay in shape for competing.
Between the years 2006 and 2013, Johnson was able to win two or more gold medals in the following state games: Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, West Virginia, Georgia, Wisconsin, California, Nevada, and Utah. At the 2009 National Senior Games, Johnson was able to win two gold medals and one bronze medal in the 100, 200, and 4×100 relays. In 2013 he was able to bring home three silver medals in those events respectively.
Johnson worked as a pastor for 36 years before retiring in 2011. He was also a former fourth grade teacher at Dayton Christian. During his time teaching, there would be a fitness challenge every year to encourage students to get up and get active.
“I would challenge my students, any boy or girl who could outrun me or outjump me would get a combo number three from the golden arches” Johnson states. When asked if the kids ever beat him he smiled and laughed, “Maybe two or three”.
With nearly a decade of competing and over 250 Sinclair classes under his belt, what could possibly keep Johnson motivated for more?
“Well, when you go to national events and see people 97 and 101 years old, still living life and competing, that’s enough motivation right there”.
Johnson, who is a member of the Team Ohio Track Club, is taking a break from competing for the remainder of the year to get prepared for the 2016 track season where he will be moving up to the 75-79 age group, making him one of the “young bucks” again.
Adrian White
Reporter