Cliff Durkee and Jackie Bridges Pickleball Triumph: Two Pinehurst residents, Cliff Durkee and Jackie Bridges, both in their mid-80s, earned high finishes at the National Senior Games in Iowa. The pair placed fifth in mixed doubles, while Jackie Bridges also secured second place in women’s doubles, proving that age is no barrier in pickleball.
Training and Dedication
Cliff Durkee and Jackie Bridges practice six days a week and train at FirstHealth Fitness – Pinehurst to improve their balance and flexibility. Their commitment helped them excel at the national level.
Durkee credited their preparation, saying, “We have taken FirstHealth’s wonderful balance class twice a week in the last several months, and it’s made a huge difference in our ability to enjoy pickleball without injuries.”
He added, “Even in our 80s, we have no intention of slowing down and our visit to the National Senior Games is proof that we’re just getting started.”
Staying Active and Healthy
Both players have undergone joint replacement surgeries but continue to focus on staying active. Jackie Bridges noted one unique advantage in their partnership: “I’m a left-hander and Cliff is a righty, which is a great thing to have in a doubles pair,” she said.
Certified personal trainer Ranina Henderson, who works with them in the balance class, praised their dedication. “These two are incredibly dedicated, and we are all proud of how well they played in Iowa,” Henderson said.
“They work hard each week, and it’s obviously making a difference for their pickleball, but also in their day-to-day life. Many people deal with balance issues as they age, but Jackie and Cliff are shining examples of what it looks like when you make health and wellness a priority throughout your life.”
Broader Impact
Cliff Durkee and Jackie Bridges have been longtime members of FirstHealth Fitness and use its programs fully. Their story shows how regular exercise and determination can help people remain active, competitive, and healthy even later in life.
News in Brief: Cliff Durkee and Jackie Bridges Pickleball Triumph
Pinehurst residents Cliff Durkee and Jackie Bridges, both in their mid-80s, earned top finishes at the National Senior Games in Iowa. The duo placed fifth in mixed doubles, while Bridges also won second in
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