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Alumni Anchor magazine inspires alumnus to share his fitness story

Posted by Katie Ciavaglia on November 3, 2014 in News
Dr. Art Spencer (DDS'82) at the 55 Plus Games in Alberta
Dr. Art Spencer (DDS'82) at the 55 Plus Games in Alberta

This year’s Alumni Anchor magazine featured stories about health and wellness. This inspired one alumnus to share his story about how he stays active.

“The magazine showcased students, staff and alumni participating and promoting physical fitness,” says Dr. Art Spencer (DDS’82). “I wanted to let others know that even senior alumni can stay active and have fun keeping fit.”

After volunteering for the 55 Plus Canada Games in Cape Breton in 2012, Dr. Spencer became interested in participating as an athlete.

“It was an inspiring experience to see older athletes from all over Canada compete,” recalls Dr. Spencer. “I had recently taken up cycling after a 30 year hiatus, so I thought why not try out for the next games.”

The following year, Dr. Spencer attended the Nova Scotia 55 Plus Games in Truro and qualified in the 55 to 64 age group. He was off to the 2014 games held in Sherwood Park, Alberta where he competed in the 10 km time trial and the 20 km road race.

“I had never raced before, and I took home gold in both events, says Dr. Spencer. “I had never considered myself an athlete and here I was taking home gold for my province.”

Dr. Spencer hopes that by sharing his experience he will inspire fellow alumni to get active.

“I resumed cycling in my fifties and cycled the Cabot Trail several times, participated in team triathlons with my children and have been fortunate to represent my province in a national event,” says Dr. Spencer. “There is lots of hope for an active future regardless of age, the old saying ‘use it or lose it’ really rings true.”