Abstract

The runner Fokke Kramer is reported on, who won several popular races as well as middle-distance races at the regional level in his youth. Later, he worked as a physical education teacher. He started regular long-distance training at the age of 70 and then participated in various national competitions (from 5km to marathon). His running times improved until the age of 75, after which only a slight decrease in performance was noticeable. In sports medical examinations at the age of 77, he showed good performance on a spiro ergometer (on a stationary bike): Maximum performance 221 watts with a maximum heart rate of 132 beats/minute. The maximum output corresponds to 3.6 watts/kg/ body weight. The ventilation was 14 l/min at rest and 114 l/min at maximum exertion. The maximum oxygen uptake was 37.1ml/kg/min. Orthopaedic problems existed in the knee joints (varus knee osteoarthritis) and in the feet (hallux valgus). Fokke Kramer became German champion several times in the corresponding age groups, later also European champion and gold medallist at the World Championships for seniors in Torun and Gothenburg. Now he is the world record holder (M 85) for 5km and 10km.