Still got it: 71-year-old athlete inspires at Pacific Mini Games

Inspiring moments continue to emerge, demonstrating that age is no barrier for the oldest athlete competing at the Pacific Mini Games in Palau.

Seventy-one-year-old Clarence Clanry from the Marshall Islands has become a symbol of hope throughout his performances in the table tennis competition.

With a 53-year age gap between Clanry and his youngest teammate, the veteran has earned deep respect and admiration from his younger counterparts, who praise his professionalism and leadership.

“I think I’m playing with a very pro athlete. I don’t think of him as a grandpa, but I also think of him as a professional athlete,” men's partner Leroy Jerius told PMN correspondent James Nokise.

Clanry has an impressive table tennis career that spans over 59 years. He entered the Palau games with a wealth of experience, competing in the men's singles and doubles events.

Female teammate Maer Loeak told Nokise that Clanry’s presence at the games shows what can be achieved when you don’t let age hold you back.

Clarence Clanry, left, and Maer Loeak take on Palau. Photo/PMN News/James Nokise

“I think age doesn’t matter. As long as you play and exercise, then that’s it,” Loeak says.

Despite not winning any matches in a tough singles category, Clanry measures his success not by podium finishes, but by the pride from some of his 14 grandchildren who support him online.

“They saw me on Facebook, and they said, ‘Are you okay?’ I said, I’m okay and keep going. They’re proud of me when I’m doing table tennis,” Clanry says.

In a nation traditionally known for its love of basketball, the Marshallese table tennis team hope their performance will inspire a new generation of athletes to compete in a variety of sports.

“Table tennis is not really a main sport for the Marshallese, but we hope the younger generation can see us play and start wanting to join us because we want others to play and represent our island,” Maer says.

While it’s unclear if this will be Clanry's last appearance at the games, one thing is sure - his dedication to the sport remains unwavering, proving that passion truly knows no age limit.

Medal Standings