Alan Poisner surprises world by winning gold at 90 with no coach and no support team

Time of India

5 days ago

Alan Poisner surprises world by winning gold at 90 with no coach and no support team (Image Via X)
At 90, Dr. Alan Poisner still walks in races and wins. He earned a gold medal in the 3,000‑meter walk at the World Masters Athletics Indoor Championships in March 2025, held in Gainesville, Florida for the 90–94 age group.
That same week, he also took part in the 10 K outdoor event, although it was canceled due to lightning. Amazingly, he now walks about 28 miles a week to prepare for the National Senior Games in Des Moines this July.
Dr. Alan Poisner sets
racewalking records
at 90 after winning gold at
World Masters Athletics 2025
Alan Poisner has been in competitive racewalking for four decades. He joined the Heartland Racewalkers club in Kansas City at age 50, inspired by Olympian Debbi Lawrence.
On March 28, 2025, at the World Masters Indoor Championships in Gainesville, Florida, he walked the 3,000 meters and was the only competitor in his 90–94 age group, earning gold ahead of the silver medalist from the 85–89 group.
He also raced a 10 K outdoor walk but heavy rain and lightning cut the event short. Still, this victory adds to a long list: Alan Poisner won state and national senior games races and set age‑group records. Earlier in 2025, he beat other walkers in the Kansas Senior Games' 5K race and set a record in a 1,500 m walk in Topeka.
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Alan Poisner shares walking tips for seniors and how to stay active and injury free at any age
Alan Poisner credits walking for giving him physical and mental benefits. He says walking can improve heart and brain health, connect people socially, and let you enjoy nature.
He's walked in many places, including on the Great Wall of China and along Copacabana in Brazil.
He keeps things cautious:
'If you don't have much experience, start with something comfortable and increase pace slowly—about 10 percent per week.'
He adds:
'You've got to have fun.'
He warns against overdoing it: injuries can kill motivation. He emphasizes safe progression: older people can begin with short distances, half a block or a block and build up.
Alan Poisner also practices mindful walking; he won't listen to music so he can fully enjoy his surroundings and stay focused on safety.
This story shows that age doesn't have to limit you. Dr. Alan Poisner is proof that passion, patience, and smart habits can help you walk competitively even at 90.
FAQs
1.How old is Alan Poisner and is he still racewalking competitively?
Alan Poisner is 90 years old and still competing in racewalking events like the World Masters Athletics and National Senior Games.
2.Did Alan Poisner win a gold medal in 2025 without a coach or team?
Yes, Alan Poisner won gold in the 3000 meter walk at age 90 with no coach or support team at the 2025 World Masters Athletics.
3.What tips does Alan Poisner give for older people who want to start walking?
Alan Poisner suggests starting slow, increasing pace gradually, and making sure walking stays fun and injury free.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!