Barry on Buffalo

Pierre Jean “Buster” Martin completed the London Marathon this week in ten hours. Buster claims he is 101 years old, which would make him the oldest runner to complete a marathon, however, the Guinness World Record people will not acknowledge it, since they have not been able to verify his age. 

The centenarian, who decided to take on the 26.2 mile challenge to raise money for his favorite children’s charity, said afterwards that he would have completed the course much quicker but for his regular beer and cigarette breaks.  Upon finishing his 10 hour charity run, the first thing Buster said was ‘where’s my beer?’ When told of Guinness’ decision, Buster commented, ”I don’t care about any Guinness world record, the only Guinness I’m interested in is one I can drink.”

Buster, who is still employed by Pimlico Plumbing, showed up to work the next day at 7:30 am, while his 31 year old trainer,  needed two days off to recuperate.  Buster has a child that is 87, Roberto, just 14 years his junior. 

Record or not, Buster is truly a “man’s man”, and for that, I recognize him with a Barry On Buffalo Blogmaster Award, or “Bloggy”, joining the blog’s only other honoree, Jack LaLanne, the 94 year old fitness guru, who I thought was dead.  Buster, I salute you, and if Jack starts smokin’ and drinkin’, he too may live long enough to match your great accomplishment.  God speed, Jack and Buster.