At 98, Florida Woman Remains the World’s Oldest Competitive Pool Player
JENSEN BEACH, Fla. — At an age when most people are content to enjoy quiet retirement, Maggie Kennedy is still chalking her cue and lining up shots with precision and passion. Now 98 years old, Kennedy continues to defy expectations as the world’s oldest competitive pool player, a title she earned at 94 and has proudly held for the past five years.
Her journey began in earnest in 2021 when Guinness World Records officially recognized her as the oldest competitive player in the sport. Since then, Kennedy has not only maintained her competitive edge but also inspired a community of players and fans alike. This year, she and her team, Sunday Funday, are set to compete at the BCA Nationals Pool League Tournament in Las Vegas, an event that draws top talent from across the country.
“We’ll be playing every day from Wednesday through Sunday, and then, of course, the slot machines will be right handy,” Kennedy told WPTV, revealing a playful side alongside her competitive spirit. Her opponents often underestimate her, she says, a surprise that fuels her love for the game. “I fell in love with the game,” she said. “I think it’s because I’m old, I think that surprises people.”
The local pool community has rallied strongly behind Kennedy. On a recent Sunday at Raxx Billiards in Stuart, players and supporters gathered to raise $2,000 to fund her first-class flight to Las Vegas. Kennedy was visibly moved by the gesture. “I’m still flabbergasted,” she said. “I was just so touched by what they did.”
Kennedy attributes her longevity and vitality to her New England heritage and a positive outlook on life. “I come from good, hearty New England stock,” she explained. “I was taught to be nice and be happy, and here I am.” Her story is a testament to the power of community, passion, and resilience.
Her upcoming participation in the BCA Nationals Pool League Tournament highlights the growing recognition of senior athletes in competitive sports. Organizations like the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee have increasingly emphasized inclusive opportunities for athletes of all ages. Meanwhile, the Billiard Congress of America, which organizes the tournament, continues to promote the sport’s accessibility and competitive spirit.
Kennedy’s story also underscores the importance of active aging, a concept supported by the National Institute on Aging, which encourages seniors to engage in physical and social activities to maintain health and well-being. Her participation in competitive pool not only keeps her mentally sharp but also connects her with a vibrant community.
As she prepares to travel to Las Vegas, Kennedy’s enthusiasm remains undiminished. Her journey challenges stereotypes about aging and athleticism, proving that passion and determination know no age limits. For many, Maggie Kennedy is not just a pool player but a symbol of enduring vitality and joy.
More information about the BCA Nationals Pool League Tournament can be found on the official Billiard Congress of America website, which offers details on schedules, participants, and tournament history.
Leave a Reply