In the rowing boat on the water: there is no greater happiness for Jornaroos Hamaker-Nauta from Hoogeveen. Twice a week she paddles many kilometers on the Hoogeveense Vaart.
“Usually about 7 to 11 kilometers.”
The lady can rightly be called a ‘crazy guy’, because today she blew out ninety candles. Enough reason for rowing club De Compagnie to put their oldest member in the spotlight.
After breakfast and unwrapping presents, the birthday boy gets into a decorated four-man boat. With a little help she is helped into the boat. “I have polyneuropathy, which means I hardly have any strength in my lower legs. But once I sit, I sit,” she smiles.
There are three people over 80 in the boat at Hamaker-Nauta. They also train several times a week. “Rowing keeps you young,” explains 86-year-old Hans Mooij.
“Water sports have always attracted me,” says Hamaker-Nauta. “I used to swim in the Blue Lake every day. Cold or rain: I was always there.”
Ten years ago, Hamaker-Nauta took the plunge and registered with De Compagnie in Hoogeveen. “Learning to row was so much fun! Now this club is like a family to me. I feel so welcome here.”
The birthday boy makes a lap of honor across the water to loud applause from the other participants. Back on the sidelines, there is some resentment at Hamaker-Nauta. “Was this it? I still want to continue.”
Perseverance appears to be the secret to healthy aging: “You just have to go. Rain or shine.”
