A Century of Practice Behind Her, Shotputter Keeps Competitive Edge

OKLAHOMA CITY — Eleven feet 4 inches is not close to a world record for a woman’s shotputter--unless the athlete is 100 years old.

Margaret White, 100, of Turpin, Okla., put the shot 11-4 Sunday at the Sooner Games. She has put it 12-11 outdoors.

The housewife and mother of 10 said that she competes to please her youngest son, a 62-year-old physical education teacher who also is active in age-group competition.

Since White is the only known competitor in her event, she does not have to worry about anyone bettering her distances.

“If my health holds good, I might try it again,” she said.