Home/Swimming

In a world that often fixates on the limitations of age, a heartwarming and inspiring video has taken the internet by storm. Imagine the scene a grandpa wearing cool blue swimming gear is standing at the edge of a boat on a crystal-clear lake that glistens in the sunlight. Mind you, this isn’t just any grandpa.

He is a man who has gracefully traversed over a century and isn’t content with the ordinary. His inspiring stories of adventure and triumph paint a picture of a life well lived. On the surface, he might appear as just another grandpa, but the twinkle in his eye and the spark of adventure that fuels him set him apart. This is Franklin Estes, a sprightly soul about to celebrate his astounding 106th birthday in the most unforgettable way.

The daring swimming stunt as his 106-birthday gift

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The scene was set against the backdrop of Lake Winnipesaukee. Franklin gets ready as the boat gently rocks against a backdrop of blue that stretches to the horizon. Then, in a matter of seconds, he leaps into the deep blue lake below. A century-old spirit that he is, he makes the risky dive without the protection of a life jacket. The splash was met with applause, not just from those present, but from thousands who witnessed this incredible feat through the viral reel posted by Sportscenter and ESPN below.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by SportsCenter (@sportscenter)

“Amazing “ was the caption, which perfectly encapsulated the significance of the situation. Franklin’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Born prematurely, he emerged into a world that demanded resilience. A survivor of polio, he navigated the challenges of the Great Depression and stood tall amid the turbulence of World War II. He overcame each challenge with steadfast optimism, proving to the world that life is about thriving rather than just existing.? It is also important to know this isn?t the first time Franklin Estes has done a daring stunt like this.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

A birthday tradition

In a previous video, he can be seen diving into a lake headfirst at the age of 102, a feat that astounded both his family and online viewers. At 106 years old, he still repeats this daring move, proving that his zest for life hasn’t changed at all. Even in his day-to-day life, Franklin proves he is still passionate to live each day. He handles his own shopping, cooks his own meals, and even does his own laundry. ?Years ago, I made a promise to him that I would never let him go into a nursing home,” shares his devoted grandson, Shaun.

Read more: VIDEO: Swimming in the Ocean Turns Chaotic as MMA-Style Brawl Breaks Out Among Crowd

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

True to his word, Shaun welcomed Franklin into his home, providing companionship and care. At 105, Franklin received a pacemaker that did nothing to dampen his zest for life. Each year, he repeats this ritual, embracing the water’s embrace with the enthusiasm of a much younger soul. “He loves the water and loves doing things that defy his age,” Shaun explains, demonstrating Franklin’s enduring passion for life. Franklin shows all with an example that getting older is just a chapter in life story and not the whole tale.

Watch this story:? 16-Year-Old Swimming Prodigy Summer McIntosh Bounces Back After Losing to Katie Ledecky in the 400m Freestyle