At 91, Flo Meiler Holds Pole Vault and Triple Jump World Records

Flo Meiler stands in her Shelburne home surrounded by a wall of medals, most of them gold. At 91 years old, the track and field athlete holds world records in the pole vault and triple jump. Her competitive career did not begin in youth but in her sixth decade, a timing that surprised even her closest friends.

In 2016, Meiler was 60 when her friend Barbara Jordan persuaded her to enter the long jump at the Vermont Senior Games. Meiler entered the event and found an immediate passion for the sport. Jordan has since passed away, and Meiler still speaks of the loss. “I miss her so much,” Meiler said.

Meiler remains active in competition despite acknowledging physical changes over the years. “I’m sad that I can’t jump like I used to, but I really enjoy it,” she said. She maintains her fitness by adding exercises when she feels her speed slowing down. The community response to her continued participation provides a major motivation for her training.

Athletes frequently approach Meiler after events to express gratitude for her example. “I really feel really warm inside because I’ve had so many athletes come up to me and say, ‘What an inspiration you have been to me,’” Meiler said. “That’s a wonderful feeling.”

University of Vermont freshman Jason Lei is one of those athletes. He told Meiler, “I want to be moving like you when I’m older as well.” Meiler, who has been married to Gene Meiler for 65 years, said the interaction rejuvenates her. “It makes me feel like 60 again,” she said.

Gene Meiler, her husband, credits her competitive spirit for their long marriage. “She’s impressed me, that’s for sure,” he said. “That’s why I married her. She impressed me.” Meiler attributes her longevity to divine blessing. “I’m very happy,” she said. “The good Lord has given me my health and my talent.”