91-year-old Belgian is world orienteering champion again

Frans Van de Moortel, a 91-year-old resident of Diest, Belgium, has once again claimed the world title in orienteering, marking his second consecutive victory in his age category. Competing in Poland, Van de Moortel outperformed 14 rivals to secure the gold medal in the long-distance race and added a silver medal from the middle-distance event to his impressive haul.

Orienteering, a sport that blends physical exertion with mental acuity, requires participants to navigate an unfamiliar course using a detailed map and compass, visiting designated checkpoints along the way. Van de Moortel discovered the sport during his military service with the paracommandos. He was instrumental in founding the Omega orienteering club in Diest in 1977, which at its peak boasted 300 members.

“

Orienteering is a healthy sport. Running keeps you moving, which is good for your body. At the same time, it's training for the mind.

"Orienteering is a healthy sport," Van de Moortel stated. "Running keeps you moving, which is good for your body. At the same time, it's training for the mind." Despite his advanced age, Van de Moortel has no intention of slowing down. Last year's world title was won in Spain, and he is already looking forward to the next World Championships in Japan, a continent he has never visited.

He likens his approach to staying fit to that of a well-maintained vintage car: "We have to stay fit. I compare myself to a good, old car: sometimes you need to have a spare part fitted, like my knee a while ago, but with a good mechanic, you can drive again quickly." His dedication and passion for the sport continue to inspire, proving that age is no barrier to achieving peak performance.

“

We have to stay fit. I compare myself to a good, old car: sometimes you need to have a spare part fitted, like my knee a while ago, but with a good mechanic, you can drive again quickly.