Littleton, Colo. Jan. 31, 2014 – It’s never to late to revive a passion, and nobody knows that better than Littleton, Colo. resident Clink Brookhart. The 73-year-old had competed in triathlons for nearly 20 years before giving it up in 2002 at the age of 62. His bone-on-bone knee injuries made it too painful to compete and had cut a very fulfilling amateur career short – or so he thought.
Two years ago, Advanced Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists’ Dr. John Papilion completed two total knee replacements for Mr. Brookhart. We implanted Stryker Triathlon System prosthesis in each knee, and today at age 73, Clint has competed in two triathlons – finishing first in his age group at both events.
As with any total joint replacement, it took hard work and dedication to get back to competition, but the small milestones along the way were impressive. Within three months, Brookhart was downhill skiing and he then began to build strength and endurance by swimming and biking. About 15 months after surgery, he started jogging again. In 2012, Clint decided to return to competition. “I missed the thrill of it and being around other very fit individuals,” Brookhart said. “After finishing a triathlon I feel proud to have competed with so many wonderful athletes.”
Clint’s most recent race was in September 2013 in Malibu, CA, where he placed first in the 70-74 age group with a time of 1:14:33.
We congratulate Clint for his determination, strength and success. What an inspiration to athletes everywhere and a great reminder to get out there and Be Active!
