Peter Gröner: A record for the sports badge at the age of 86!

Peter Gröner: A record for the sports badge at the age of 86!

In Germany, the German Sports Badge is a recognized benchmark for fitness and sporting achievements, especially for seniors. An impressive example of dedication and perseverance is Peter Gröner from Esslingen, who at the age of 86 has already acquired 68 sports badges. This represents a record in Württemberg. Gröner, who does not describe himself as an extreme athlete, is planning further successes and has the ambitious goal of achieving 75 repetitions of the sports badge, after having already achieved 70. This is reported by the German Olympic Sports Confederation.

Despite challenges such as colon cancer surgery and knee surgery, he never gave up his passion for sports. Gröner completed his last swimming test shortly before New Year's Eve so as not to interrupt his series. He uses the sports badge challenges to stay continually active and recommends others start taking exams early in the year to have a buffer.

A role model for fitness and motivation

His approach to sport goes beyond performance; he sees the sports badge as a philosophy of life. “It's not just about the competition, but about personal fitness,” says Gröner, who regularly trains in various disciplines such as running, cycling, shot put and swimming. At almost 90 years old, he is an example of discipline and joy in movement. He has received awards for his perseverance several times, including at Europapark Rust in 2022.

The German Sports Badge is aimed at seniors aged 60 and over and consists of tests in four discipline groups: endurance, coordination, speed and strength. To earn the badge, tests in sports such as gymnastics, athletics, cycling and swimming are required. For older adults, such as those ages 60 to 74, there are specific requirements outlined in benefit tables. Details can be found on Basenio.de.

Participation and recognition

The exams can be taken in local sports clubs or sports badge clubs, of which there are over 3,000 nationwide. Participants must document their achievements on a test card, whereby the certificate with badge currently costs €4.00. The Bronze, Silver and Gold levels have different requirements that vary depending on gender and age group.

Gröner not only pools his own experience, but also encourages all seniors to become active too. His life journey shows that fitness and sport are possible at any age and can play a decisive role in the personal quality of life. The German Sports Badge remains a symbol of the joy of movement and the challenges that athletes can overcome at every stage of life. Further information about the badge and current events can be found at German Olympic Sports Confederation and Esslinger newspaper available.