OptiMSM Keeps Master Athlete Philippa “Phil” Raschker Going

Since starting rhythmic gymnastics at age two, Philippa “Phil” Raschker has developed a lifelong passion for physical fitness and athletic competition. But it’s been as a master track and field athlete that she has demonstrated her drive, determination and stamina, becoming a role model for athletes of all ages. Currently, 60-year-old Phil competes in numerous events, including sprints, hurdles, and jumps.

Phil discovered premium, pure OptiMSM® while recovering from knee surgery. “By supplementing my daily routine with OptiMSM, I have found a natural way to relieve joint stiffness with no side effects. I like the fact that OptiMSM is a licensed product and that it is the purest MSM available on the market,” she said. In 2001, Bergstrom Nutrition signed Phil as a spokesperson for OptiMSM. One look at Phil scaling hurdles with ease is proof positive that OptiMSM helps Phil to do the things she loves to do!

She holds the distinction of being the oldest female athlete to represent the U.S. in Open International Competition, in pole vaulting in 1995 at the age of 48! Two years later, at 50, Phil was the oldest female athlete to be recruited for a collegiate track and field scholarship.

Some of Phil’s noteworthy achievements are:

Records

• Currently holds 17 indoor and 16 outdoor World Masters Athletics (WMA) records in various events and age groups.
• Currently holds 25 Indoor and 36 Outdoor USA Track and Field Records in various events and age groups.
• Currently holds 12 National Senior Games – The Senior Olympics Records in various events and age groups.
• In 2003, won 25 gold medals in the Senior Olympics, masters track and field national and international competitions, and in the process set 7 world records.

Achievements

• Received USATF Outstanding Female Masters Track and Field Athlete of the Year 13 times since the award was initiated in 1979.
• Received USATF Outstanding Female Combined-Events Masters Track and Field Athlete of the Year 8 times since the award was initiated in 1991.
• Inducted into the USATF Masters Hall of Fame in 1997.

Recognition

• Oldest Finalist and Nominee for the AAU James E. Sullivan Memorial Award at the age of 57 (2003).
• Inducted into the National Senior Games Association Hall of Fame in 2005.