At 91, Vermont track and field champion holds two world records
Vermont’s world-record track-and-field champion started competing at 60
SHELBURNE, Vt. (InvestigateTV) — When you walk into Flo Meiler’s home in Shelburne, you will see a lot of bling. Not jewelry — medals.
“And I got 12 golds, two world records — pole vault and triple jump," Meiler said.
Meiler, 91, is a celebrated figure in the track and field community.
She was named the 2025 USA Track & Field Female Masters and Overall Masters Athlete of the Year — out of thousands of athletes across the country who compete.
A late start
It all started when Meiler was 60. Her friend Barbara Jordan convinced her to try the long jump at the Vermont Senior Games. Meiler was hooked.
Still training at 91
Meiler has not slowed down. She trains at the University of Vermont track and field facility three days a week — setting up her own equipment without help.
“I’m sad that I can’t jump like I used to, but I really enjoy it,” she said. “I’m 91, I shouldn’t complain.”
She said she is the first person in the world to pole vault at 90.
“It feels fantastic,” she said.
Meiler carries her equipment in a vintage Sears cart she once used to pull her children.
“I can tell if I’m slowing down, and if I’m slowing down, then I know I have to add a few more exercises to improve,” she said.
Inspiring others
Meiler said the impact she has on other athletes, young and old, means everything to her.
“I really feel really warm inside, because I’ve had so many athletes come up to me and say, ‘What an inspiration you have been to me.’ That’s a wonderful feeling,” she said.
University of Vermont freshman Jason Lei is among those inspired.
“I want to be moving like you when I’m older as well,” Lei told Meiler.
“Oh, it makes me feel like 60 again!” she responded.
A life built on discipline
Meiler’s discipline is what attracted her husband, Gene, to whom she has been married for 65 years.
“She’s impressed me, that’s for sure. In fact, that’s why I married her — she impressed me," Gene Meiler said.
For Flo Meiler, the work is both a gift and a practice.
“But I’m very happy the good Lord has given me my health and my talent,” she said.
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