Rye Brook Atria Residents Break Rowing Records Recently

RYE BROOK, NY — Atria Rye Brook residents Ruth Shiller, 98, and Delia Mercurio, 89, both wives of veterans, broke the Concept World 2 Records April 25, cheered on by their teammates, along with friends, family, and fellow Atria Rye Brook veterans.

Shiller set the record for the women’s over 90 years old 500-meter race. Mercurio set the record for women over 90 years old 100-meter race. Angelo DeCaro, 102, a World War II veteran, set the record for the 100-meter race and is the oldest person to have ever set a record.

Other Atria Rye Brook Veteran Rowing Team members, who ranged in age from 82 to 98, competed, with Olympic rowing Coach John Pescatore at the helm.

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The group’s current record-breaking quest began with training last September for event when they rowed out on the water in Glen Island Harbor. They also competed in January at the Connecticut Indoor Rowing Championship in Easton Connecticut where several residents placed in the top three in their categories. After this successful experience their next goal became today’s record breaking event.

Their commitment to staying physically and mentally active puts them on the path of aging well, says Stephanie Hart, Atria Rye Brook’s Engage Life Director.

“These older adults have taken a positive attitude towards living longer by challenging themselves physically, trying new things and by maintaining a healthy lifestyle,” she said.

“Our Atria Rye Brook residents have gotten this far in life with their determination,” Hart said. “Their resiliency and willingness to try new challenges every day puts them on the path towards success.”

Photo caption: Ruth Shiller rowing with John Pescatore coaching her through making a record. Photo credit: Courtesy.