Centenarian Champion: The Indomitable Spirit of Mike Fremont (vegan), Part 1 of 2

Usually, people over 70 tend to slow down and engage in fewer activities in their daily lives. On October 6, 2022, NBC Nightly News featured the Inspiring America segment, with Maggie Vespa sharing the remarkable story of Mike Fremont (vegan). At 100 years old, he is defying expectations by running five to ten miles (8 to 16 kilometers) three times a week and holding four world records. With 60 marathons under his feet, Mike boasts four world records: fastest marathons for his age at 80 and 90, and fastest half-marathons at 90 and 91.

Born into a happy middle-class family in Cincinnati, Ohio, Mike grew up facing challenges due to his asthma. “I was a sickly kid. I was undersized. I had asthma from the time I was born practically, and so I couldn’t always go to school, and the navy sneered at me. The army sneered at me because you can’t have asthma.” Mike’s regular running routine began at the age of 36…

He co-founded American Rivers in 1973 and founded Rivers Unlimited, a statewide river group. Over the years, he has been actively involved in the restoration of Ohio’s waterways. Locally, Mike served as an early and long-standing Board member of the Little Miami Conservancy. In 2020, Mike was honored with Ohio’s highest conservation award, being inducted into the Ohio Natural Resources Hall of Fame. This prestigious recognition stands as the state’s highest honor for conservation efforts.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate his centennial birthday which was celebrated on February 23, 2022. However, Mike’s journey to this level of contentment and joy was not without its trials. The saying “life is no bed of roses” holds particular significance in his case. He was beset with challenges, most notably his health struggles. In 1991, when he was 69 years old, he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and the doctors said he had three months left if he didn’t do anything. Over three decades have passed since Mike Fremont was diagnosed with cancer, and overcame it through a vegan diet. He continues to inspire many with his enduring presence and remarkable story.