Kirkland Village in Bethlehem is celebrating two of its residents who competed in the 2025 National Senior Games and proved themselves to be among the country’s most elite swimmers over the age of 80. Charles Einolf and Lee Sample traveled to Des Moines, Iowa, from July 24 to Aug. 4 to participate in the biennial, Olympic-style competition for adults ages 50 and over.

Charles Einolf, 84, swam in three events in the 80-84 age group, placing fourth in both the 100-yard and 200-yard breaststroke events, and sixth in the 50-yard breaststroke. Lee Sample, 87, swam in two events in the 85-89 age group, placing sixth in the 100-yard freestyle race and eighth in the 50-yard freestyle event.

To earn the opportunity to compete at the National Senior Games, both men participated in a qualifying competition in New Jersey in September 2024. Both Charles and Lee have been lifelong swimmers and competed on their college swim teams. They formed a friendship at the Kirkland Village pool, where they both swim six days a week. They decided to try out for this year’s National Senior Games at Charles’ suggestion, who also competed in the 2005 and 2009 games. Both Charles and Lee were accompanied on the trip by their children, who came to cheer them on.

The 2025 National Senior Games drew more than 12,500 athletes from all 50 states and 12 countries.

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