Most people nearing 80 are taking it easy. Mike McConnell is heading to the rink.
Just weeks before his 80th birthday, the Valley resident is still skating every Thursday night at the Peoria rink in a recreational hockey league, where he is often 20 to 30 years older than everyone else on the ice.
He is also preparing for another trip to California later this month to compete in the Snoopy Hockey Tournament in Santa Rosa. It will be his second time skating in the 70-and-over division.
McConnell’s wife said he has become an inspiration to family, friends and even strangers who are surprised by his age when they see him on the ice.
ABC15’s Cameron Polom reported on what keeps McConnell motivated, how he stays healthy enough to keep playing, and why he is not ready to hang up his skates anytime soon.
Read more from ABC15.
