Landis holds top swimming marks

Noted Camp Sherman Masters swimmer Tom Landis still holds first place for several events in his age group (60-64). World rankings have been tabulated for 2005 and Landis’s times head the list in eight events.

“I’m taking it easy this year but will give an all-out effort next year (2007) when I hit 65 years old,” said Landis.

“That’s the bottom age rung in the 65-to-69-year-old category and perhaps the best time to shoot for records.”

Taking it “easy” includes backpacking, biking, hiking, cross-country skiing and swimming.

“Right now I’m training to stay fit, and that’s good,” he said. “Training to be at the top of the world takes twice the effort and you’re going to be tired all the time.”

Landis works out at Sisters Athletic Club (SAC) about one hour, three times a week.

“We swim about 3,500 yards and keep in shape,” he said. “I’d mainly like to promote keeping in shape for active seniors.”

Landis did two legs — cross-country skiing and kayaking — in Bend’s recent Pole Pedal Paddle event with his team finishing second.

Earlier this year, Landis spent time in Puerto Escondido, Mexico, body surfing.

“That was a rough beach to surf with eight- to 10-foot waves,” said Landis. “Fortunately, when you wiped out, there was a sandy bottom.”

At home in Camp Sherman, he and his wife Madeline Landis share views of Mt. Jefferson off their back deck with nearby llamas.

Both are active outdoor enthusiasts.

Madeline also works out at SAC and is preparing for a 500-mile hike this summer.

Tom Landis’ 2005 top times:

Long Course Meters (LCM) — 100 meter Freestyle — 01:04.2

LCM — 200 Freestyle — 2:25.4

LCM — 400 Freestyle — 5.10.2

LCM— 800 Freestyle — 10:52.3

LCM — 1,500 Freestyle — 20:26.3

LCM — 400 Individual Medley — 06:24.4