Al Gordon Inspires Grandson John Roberts

John Roberts, 28, is the grandson of Al Gordon, 106, the namesake of this weekend’s NYRR Al Gordon Snowflake 4-Mile. Roberts is also the winner of the 2008 NYRR Gridiron Classic 4-Mile, held on February 3. He spoke with NYRR about how his grandfather, a Wall Street CEO for 55 years who won a World Masters Championship at 10,000 meters and finished the London Marathon at age 81, has inspired him.

How did you get started in the sport?
Both of my parents ran, so I figured there had to be some ability hidden in there. I started in high school because I couldn’t do worse at running than I did at soccer. I had an incredible coach and a great team.

I went to Harvard and tried out for the team in my freshman year, but I didn’t make it. I ran on my own for two years, tried out my junior year, and made the team. After college, a friend in New York invited me to a [Nike Central Park Track Club] workout. I’ve made most of my improvement in the last five years while training with CPTC. I’ve gotten a little better each year, and that keeps me motivated.

What sort of influence has your grandfather, Al Gordon, had on you?
He’s had a huge influence. One of the great things about him living so long is that I’ve gotten to know him really well. I’m really grateful to him that he’s stuck around this long!

He’s always been an inspirational guy. I admire how down-to-earth he is and how much he cares for people. All his life, helping people out and giving away money have been his favorite things. And I’ve always admired his energy. He’s always focused on the future instead of dwelling on the past. That’s been a big lesson for me.

I admire his humility. He doesn’t like to talk about himself, but when he does, it’s usually in a humorous, self-deprecating way. I wish I could get more stories out of him. It’s incredible how he’s always looking for new ways to challenge and improve himself.

In your opinion, what is Al’s key to having lived such a long life?
Hopefully some of it is genetic! But exercise is definitely high on the list. He’s always had a vigorous exercise routine. He used to regularly walk to work from his apartment on 84th Street down to Wall Street. He loved walking and hiking. He ran track in college, but he didn’t start racing again until he was in his 70s. Also, he’s always gotten nine hours of sleep. I’m sure he’d list that near the top.

He loves people and has a huge network of friends. It’s been hard on him as his contemporaries have passed away, but he has friends from younger generations. I think it comes down to always thinking about the future and what’s next on the list. He worked full time until he was 86, and he kept going to the office three or four days a week until he was 104. He’s always staying busy.

How often does your grandfather watch you race?
He used to watch more frequently, but it’s harder for him to get around now. He used to come out for these races, fire the starting gun, and watch the race. I don’t think he’ll be able to make it this year, but I know I’ll see him right after. It’s always been one of my big running goals to win his race in the park. I told him a couple of years ago that I wanted to win one for him, but he’d have to stick around to see it. He’s held up his end of the bargain to give me another shot at it. I think I have a shot to win this year, but it will be a challenge. I would be thrilled if I could win this one. It’s something I’d always cherish.

What has been the greatest race of your career so far?
When I came in third at the Al Gordon race four years ago, no one from my family was expecting that. There were a few family members at the race spectating, and they were thrilled. Another of my biggest races was the Gridiron Classic a few weeks ago. It was my first win in Central Park. I managed to keep that from my grandfather; if he knew, he might expect me to win this weekend, so I’m trying to keep that under wraps.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received from Al?
Keep moving, keep busy, don’t harp on the past, keep looking for new things. This advice has really allowed me to keep going in running. Improvement is gradual, but if you keep showing up to workouts, eventually it will pay off.