Erwin Jaskulski
Erwin Jaskulski (September 24, 1902 – March 10, 2006) was a Ukrainian-American track athlete. Born in Chernivtsi, he was a Honolulu resident from 1954 until his death.[1]
Erwin Jaskulski | |
---|---|
Born | |
Died | March 10, 2006 103) | (aged
Occupation | Accountant |
Biography
For a period, Jaskulski was the world record holder for the 100 meters, 200 meters and 400 meters in the 95- to 99-year-old and the 100-plus age groups.[1] However, the record for 100 meter for 100 plus age group, which he set on November 16, 2002 at 36.19 seconds, was later broken by Philip Rabinowitz who finished in a time of 30.86 seconds.[2] According to fitness guru and friend Gilad Janklowicz, Jaskulski was a fan of classical music and his philosophy was "to be happy and joyful in life."[1]
A retired accountant, Jaskulski worked as a controller at KHON-TV.[3] He trained by doing chin ups and running down the hallways of his apartment building.[3] With failing eyesight, he was forced to stop the workouts shortly before his death.[3] He has suffered few injuries such as in 2002 when he set a world record with a cracked rib, 10 stitches in his arm, and injuries to both knees.
He never gave an interview in his life.[2] Both Jay Leno and David Letterman asked him to be on their shows but he turned the idea down.[2]
Jaskulski died on March 10, 2006, aged 103.[1] Survivors include two sons living in Austria.[1]
References
- "Erwin Jaskulski, 103, track athlete". Honolulu Advertiser. 2006-03-15. Retrieved 2008-03-18.
- Hoover, Will (2002-11-17). "Hawai'i runner sets world records for 100-year-olds". Honolulu Advertiser. Retrieved 2008-03-19.
- "Sprint records he set at advanced age still stand". Honolulu Star-Bulletin. 2006-03-14. Retrieved 2008-03-19.