Sat, Dec 23, 2006 - Page 16 News List

Seniors feel the need for speed on skates

The experience of elderly skaters who whiz round the rink as fast as they can shows there's truth in the principle that if you don't use it, you lose it

By Dan Howley  /  NY TIMES NEWS SERVICE , ALBANY, NEW YORK

Harold McAfee, 83, of Queensbury, New York, skates like someone half his age and he attributes his youthful appearance and good health to skating as much as his other activities, kayaking and tennis included. You can find him Wednesday mornings at the Saratoga Springs Ice Rink, New York, where he enjoys ice dancing and helping kids learn to skate.

"It's great for you mentally and physically," said McAfee, who also plays in an adult hockey league and coaches a youth hockey team. "I love helping the kids. I feel very lucky at my age to be able to do this."

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