Never Say 'OLD': 62 Years Young Woman Wins Gold in Weightlifting Championship and Sports Illustrated Mention

COLUMBIA, Mo., Sept. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Five years ago, doctors told Kate Walker she would have difficulty walking due to severe pain from osteoarthritis, exacerbated by years of dance training. The vision of a sedentary life didn't sit well with the spunky 62-year-old—especially considering her last name.

Ms. Walker turned to powerlifting following an inspiring training session with  Tom LaFontaine, PhD, and Director of Optimus: The Center for Health. "Powerlifting provided a way to strengthen my body and soul. I entered my first Show-Me State Games in 2006 and I've not looked back since." In addition to her world records, Walker was just named a "Faces in the Crowd" in the September 5, 2011 issue of Sports Illustrated."

Ms. Walker has won state, national and international records each year. She set raw records in her age and weight group for ADFPF and USAPL. In November 2010, she journeyed to the WDFPF world championships in Castleblayney, Ireland where her victory made headlines not only in her 60-year-old age group, but in her weight group also, leading to her selection as the Gladys Stankowski Sportswoman of the Year at the 14th annual WIN luncheon at Columbia College.

According to Walker, "Powerlifting elevates and inspires one in mind, body and spirit. It stops the negative blocks that can keep one from living up to their true potential."

Questions Walker can discuss with audiences include:

-- How does a 62-year-old woman with osteoarthritis in her knees win World Powerlifting records?

-- Why did a dancer who could no longer dance, and barely walk, chose weightlifting?

-- How did powerlifting help ailing knees?

-- How did a 62-year-old with ailing knees be invited to lift on the USA Team for two World Championships?

-- How do you train to be a world class athlete at 62?

-- Is the training schedule different for 'aging' athletes?

Born in New York, Kate Walker grew up near Atlanta. She earned undergraduate degrees in dance and psychology from Stephens College followed by a master's degree in social work from the University of Missouri. Walker has been employed at Missouri University Campus Facilities for the past 15 years, serving as training coordinator. For more information about Kate Walker visit www.KateWalkerWorldChampion.com or Facebook Kate Walker World Champion Powerlifter.

Contact: Kate Walker, [email protected], 573-289-9796

SOURCE Kate Walker