CORNELIUS KELLY
Cornelius Kelly of Pinedale, Wyoming, is a true embodiment of what it means to push beyond limits, whether in the pool or with the written word. At 89 years old, Cornelius is a seasoned competitor in the Senior Olympics, having built a remarkable legacy as a swimmer in the Senior National Games. Yet, his life isn’t just defined by his athletic achievements—Cornelius is also a poet and an individual who embraces life's pleasures with confidence, character, and a sense of adventure.of Wyoming.
A Legacy in the Pool
Cornelius’ journey as an athlete began in 2008, when the Pinedale Aquatic Center opened. At 76 years old, Cornelius dove into the pool, and it wasn’t long before his competitive spirit took over. He began participating in Senior National Games, earning medals and breaking records across multiple states. From Nebraska to South Dakota, Colorado to Hawaii, and Utah to Wyoming, Cornelius made his mark, claiming victory and setting the standard for other athletes.
Swimming Records for Cornelius F. Kelly 80-84
State of Nebraska 2016
80 years old
Breaststroke in meters:
50: 1.13.56
100: 3.49.13
200: 8.03.57
State of South Dakota 2017
81 years old
Breaststroke in yards:
50: 1.05.91
100: 2.57.13
200: 6.49.46
In 2019, Cornelius competed in the National Senior Games in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he earned a 7th, 8th, and 9th place finish in his respective events—no small feat at any age. Looking ahead, Cornelius is set to compete in the 2025 National Senior Games in Des Moines, Iowa. By then, he will be 89 years old and the oldest swimmer in his age group, a testament to his resilience and dedication to staying fit, active, and competitive.
Poet at Heart
Outside of the pool, Cornelius is also a poet, bringing the same passion and tenacity to his creative pursuits. His poetry reflects the depth and richness of his life experiences, capturing moments of introspection, nature, and human connection. Cornelius uses his words as another outlet for expression, offering a window into his vibrant personality.
Here is a small excerpt from one of his poems:
“The water’s embrace is a world so wide,
Each stroke I take, I feel alive,
The world above may rush and race,
But in the pool, I find my space.”
These words capture the essence of what swimming means to Cornelius—an escape, a space where time slows down, and the body and mind are free to roam.
A Life Well-Lived
Cornelius is a man of simple pleasures—he enjoys a good cigar and a glass of whiskey, savoring life’s little indulgences with the same zest that fuels his athletic and creative endeavors. His lifestyle reflects a deep appreciation for the moments that make life meaningful, whether it’s an athletic achievement or a quiet evening of reflection with a poem in hand.
As he continues to swim and write, Cornelius inspires us all with his commitment to staying active, creative, and engaged in the world around him. His journey proves that age is no barrier to greatness and that passion for life—whether in sport, art, or simple enjoyment—is timeless.
We look forward to following Cornelius’ journey as he heads to Des Moines in 2025 for the National Senior Games, where he will once again demonstrate that the spirit of competition and creativity knows no age.
Cornelius Kelly – A Champion, Poet, and True Wyoming Inspiration.