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spt_OldAthletes.sPubDate = "7/9/2008 10:49:41 PM GMT";
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spt_OldAthletes.appHeader = "Taking a look at athletes not slowed by Father Time";
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spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/foreman_cover.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Charles Rex Arbogast", "ASSOCIATED PRESS", "273", "399", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "Everyone's always wondering who's going to be the next big thing. But instead of taking a look at top prospects, it's time to spotlight those athletes who maintained an impressive level of play past the age of 40.
From George Foreman, to Jerry Rice, from John Stockton to Randy Johnson and many more, \"Over the Hill\" doesn't mean a career is over. ";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Archie Moore","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_ArchieMoore.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Str", "AFP/Getty Images", "273", "354", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Moore became the oldest light heavyweight champion at age 39 when he defeated Joey Maxim. He announced his retirement for the second time at age 49 but came back at 51 to fight an exhibition match, which he won via KO. According to some records, he finished his career with a 194-26-8 record, with a record 145 KOs.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Barry Bonds ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_BarryBonds.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Lisa Blumenfeld", "Getty Images", "273", "365", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Currently without a team and having been indicted on perjury and obstruction of justice charges, Bonds was one of the best hitters in baseball even after turning 40.
Many believe Bonds' accolades can be attributed to steroids, an allegation the all-time home run king denies. However, on Aug. 7, 2007, at 43, Bonds passed Hank Aaron to become the home run king with 756. Bonds finished the season with 762. ";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Bernard Hopkins","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_BernardHopkins.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Ethan Miller", "Getty Images", "273", "380", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Hopkins lost his first professional fight in 1988 but has lost only four since, and he's still fighting at 43.
Hopkins lost his most recent fight, to Joe Calzaghe, but before that had defeated the likes of Winky Wright, Antonio Tarver and Jermain Taylor in the past few years. ";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Carlton Fisk","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_CarltonFisk.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Jonathan Daniel", "Getty Images", "273", "446", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
The original \"Pudge,\" Hall of Fame catcher Fisk played from 1969-1993 and had his jersey retired by both the Red Sox and the White Sox.
He won the Rookie of the Year and won a Gold Glove in 1972, was a three-time Silver Slugger winner and an 11-time All-Star. He played in his final All-Star Game in 1991 at age 43.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Charles Oakley","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_CharlesOakley.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Doug Pensinger", "Getty Images", "273", "387", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
He was never known for his offensive prowess, but you'd be hard-pressed to find a more tenacious and hard-nosed defender than Oakley. He played for the Chicago Bulls, New York Knicks, Toronto Raptors, Washington Wizards and Houston Rockets over a career that spanned from 1985-2004.
Oakley, who retired after the 2003-04 season at 40, was named to the All-Defensive First Team in 1994, the All-Defensive Second Team in 1998 and was an All-Star in 1994. ";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Chris Chelios","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_ChrisChellios.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Gregory Shamus", "Getty Images", "273", "349", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
The the oldest active NHL player at 46, Chelios helped the Red Wings reach the playoffs this year, his record 23rd trip to the postseason in 24 seasons. The defenseman played in his 1,496th game on Nov. 24, 2006, breaking the record for most games played by an American.
He has 185 goals and 763 assists in his career. On April 12, 2008, Chelios played in his 248th playoff game, breaking Patrick Roy's record. He has also played on four U.S. Olympic teams, winning silver in 2002.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Craig Biggio","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_CraigBiggio.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Jonathan Daniel", "Getty Images", "273", "347", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Biggio retired after the 2007 season at the age of 41. The former Houston Astro recorded 3,060 hits, 20th on the all-time list. He was a seven-time All-Star, four-time Gold Glover and a five-time Silver Slugger. He also led the league in stolen bases in 1994.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Curt Schilling","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_CurtSchilling.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Jim Mcisaac", "Getty Images", "273", "404", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Through 2007, Schilling, 41, has a 216-146 record and a 3.46 ERA. He has played for the Baltimore Orioles, Houston Astros, Philadelphia Phillies, Arizona Diamondbacks and Boston Red Sox. He's a six-time All-Star and has won three World Series.
Perhaps Schilling is most famous for the \"Bloody Sock Game.\" Pitching on an injured ankle in the 2004 ALCS against the Yankees, Schilling pitched the Sox to a victory, but the injury had gotten so bad that his white sock was stained red with his own blood. It paved the way for Game 7, which the Sox won to become the first team in MLB history to come back from a 3-games-to-0 deficit.
";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Dale Earnhardt Sr.","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_DaleEarnhardtSr.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Jonathan Ferrey", "Getty Images", "273", "377", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "Many racecar drivers compete well into their 40's, but Dale Earnhardt Sr. waited until he was 48 to reach a huge milestone - winning the Daytona 500.
After 20 years of failing to capture the flag, Earnhardt beat out Terry Labonte for the win. After the race every crew member of every team lined up to shake the legend's hand.
Earnhardt's magical career and life came to a tragic end at the 2001 Daytona 500 when he hit the wall head on in crash on the last lap. Sadly, hours later it was announced that Earnhardt had passed away.
Earnhardt was a 7-time Sprint Cup Series Champion, the 1998 Daytona 500 Champion and a 4-time IROC Champion.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Dara Torres","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_DaraTorres.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Marcus Brandt", "AFP/Getty Images", "273", "419", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Torres was the first American swimmer to compete in four Olympics: 1984, 1988, 1992 and 2000. At age 41, she is training to compete in the 2008 Games. She would become the first swimmer to make five Olympic teams and the oldest female Olympic swimmer.
She won a gold medal in the 4x100 freestyle relay in 1984, 1992 and 2000 and gold in the 4x100 medley relay in 2000. She also won a Bronze Medal in 1988 and three in 2000.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Darrell Green","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_DarrellGreen.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "left", "Heather Hall", "AFP/Getty Images", "273", "266", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Nicknamed the \"Ageless Wonder,\" Green played for the Washington Redskins his entire career, until he retired at 42. The cornerback recorded 54 interceptions and six touchdowns.
Green was elected to the Pro Bowl seven times and was an All-Pro selection four times. He made the NFL All-Decade Team for the '90s and was named the Walter Payton Man of the Year in '96. He played a record 20 seasons with the same team and went a record 19 seasons with at least one interception.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","David Wells","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_DavidWells.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Lisa Blumenfeld", "Getty Images", "273", "398", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Despite his hefty physicque, \"Boomer\" Wells has been pitching in the majors since 1987, when he made his debut with the Blue Jays. He has a 239-157 record and a 4.13 ERA while playing for the Toronto Blue Jays, Detroit Tigers, Cincinnati Reds, Baltimore Orioles, New York Yankees, Chicago White Sox, San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers.
Wells is perhaps best known for being one of only 17 pitchers to pitch a perfect game, shutting down the Twins on May 17, 1998, while with the Yankees.
Wells filed as a free agent after the 2007 season at age 44, but he has yet to find a team.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Dikembe Mutombo","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_DikembeMutombo.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Lisa Blumenfeld", "Getty Images", "273", "373", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
At 41, Mutombo is the oldest active NBA player. Considered one of the best shot blockers of all-time, he was named NBA Defensive Player of the Year four times. Mutombo is perhaps best known for his trademark finger waggle, which he would point at a player after blocking his shot.
The 7-foot-2 Mutombo is an eight-time All-Star and has been named to the All-NBA second team once and the All-NBA third team twice. he has played for the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks and Houston Rockets.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Evander Holyfield ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_EvanderHolyfield.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Layne Murdoch", "Getty Images", "273", "364", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Holyfield may be 45, but he's not ready to hang it up just yet. Holyfield is a four-time heavyweight champion, but he was determined to win a fifth when he made a comeback in 2006, nearly two years after retiring. After rattling off four straight wins, Holyfield got his title fight against Sultan Ibragimov. He lost in a unanimous decision, but vowed that he was not retiring.
Holyfield is 42-9-2 with 27 KOs. He defeated James 'Buster' Douglas for his first title, avenged a Riddick Bowe loss for his second title, defeated Mike Tyson for his third title and John Ruiz for his fourth.
Holyfield has been involved in more than his share of controversial bouts. During his second match against Riddick Bowe in 1993, a man in a parachute with a fan attached flew towards the ring but got caught in the ropes. This would later be dubbed the \"Fan Man Fight.\" Then, in his rematch against Tyson in 1997, Iron Mike took a bite out of Holyfield's right ear in the third round. After a two-point deduction, Tyson bit Holyfield's left ear and was disqualified. This fight was dubbed \"The Bite Fight.\"";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","George Foreman","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_ForemanHearns.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Timothy A. Clary", "AFP/Getty Images", "273", "430", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Foreman certainly defied the odds during his career and kept fighting until the age of 48.
Before turning pro, Foreman won a gold medal at the 1968 Olympics. He then went on to amass a 76-5 record with 68 KOs. His first major victory came against Joe Frazier. Frazier had just defeated Muhammad Ali for the heavyweight championship in a 15-round unanimous decision. Formean knocked out the undefeated Frazier in just the second round. He also defeated Ken Norton before facing Ali in the \"Rumble in the Jungle\" when he fell victim to Ali's rope-a-dope tactics. Ali was the only fighter to ever defeat Foreman via KO.
Foreman retired after a loss to Jimmy Young in 1977 but made a comeback in 1987, 10 years after leaving the ring. Seven years after his comeback started, Foreman finally recaptured the title when he shocked the world and defeated Michael Moorer. The win made Foreman the oldest heavyweight champion ever at age 45 and also marked the longest time any fighter had in between title reigns at 20 years.
Foreman announced a planned \"final\" bout against another aging fighter, Larry Holmes in 1999, but negotiations fell through. He also announced he was training for one more comeback in 2004 but that also never panned out. ";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Gaylord Perry","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_GaylordPerry.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "left", "Mlb Photos", "MLB Photos via Getty Images", "273", "254", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Perry is a Hall of Famer who compiled 314 wins over a 22-year career with the Giants, Indians, Rangers, Padres, Yankees, Braves, Marines and Royals. Perry is known mostly for doctoring balls and the use of the \"spitter\" but he was never ejected from a game for the practice until his 21st season in 1982.
Perry, who retired at the age of 45, was a 5-time All Star, the 1972 AL Cy Young winner, the 1978 NL Cy Young winner and pitched a no-hitter in 1968. ";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","George Blanda","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_GeorgeBlanda.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "left", "Hulton Archive", "Getty Images", "273", "263", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
The quarterback and kicker played in an amazing 26 NFL seasons. Blanda passed for 26,920 yards and 236 touchdowns. He was 335-641 on field goals attempts and missed only 16 extra point attempts out of 959. Blanda holds the NFL record for most seasons played (26), most seasons scoring a point (26) and most PATs made and attempted.
Blanda is also the only player to play in four different decades, the oldest person to play in an NFL game at 48, the first player ever to score 2000 points and the oldest quarterback to start a title game.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Goose Gossage","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_GooseGossage.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Stephen Dunn", "Getty Images", "273", "353", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Rich \"Goose\" Gossage is widely credited as being the pioneer of the closer role. Gossage played for the White Sox, Pirates, Yankees, Padres, Cubs, Giants, Rangers, A's and the Mariners until he rtired at the age of 43.
Gossage accumulated 310 saves and had a 3.01 ERA. He was an All-Star nine times, was the Rolaids Relief Man of the Year in 1978 and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2008.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Gordie Howe","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_GordieHowe.vlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "left", "Hulton Archive", "Getty Images", "348", "278", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
\"Mr. Hockey\" played professional hockey in an unprecedented six decades. He played for the Detroit Red Wings and Hartford Whalers of the NHL and the Houston Aeros and New England Whalers of the WHA. He played one game in 1997 for the Detroit Vipers of the IHL.
Howe, who was 52 when he skated for the final time in the NHL, won the Art Ross Trophy 6 times, the Hart Trophy 6 times, played in 23 NHL All-Star games and was named to 12 NHL First All-Star Teams.
He is second only to Wayne Gretzky with 801 NHL goals and played in the most games in league history (1,756).";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Greg Maddux","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_GregMaddux.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Stephen Dunn", "Getty Images", "273", "339", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
The veteran pitcher has reached 350 wins, but he's still going strong at age 42. Maddux has a career ERA of 3.12 and has amassed 3,299 strikeouts through May 11, 2008.
Maddux has pitched for the Cubs, Braves, Dodgers and Padres and has won an unprecedented 17 Gold Gloves. Maddux has pitched in 12 Divisional games, 15 LCS games and 5 World Series games. He has an amazing 2.09 ERA in the World Series and is an 8-time All-Star.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Jack Nicklaus","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_JackNicklaus.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "David Cannon", "Getty Images", "273", "418", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Although many golfers continue playing into their 40's, only one golfer has won the Masters at age 46 -- Nicklaus.
Nicklaus shot a blistering 6-under 30 on the back nine during the final round of the 1986 Masters at Augusta for a final round score of 7-under 65. He became the oldest player to win the Masters, a record which still stands today.
Nicklaus made a valiant effort to one up himself more than a decade later when he came in sixth at the 1998 Masters at 58.
In his legendary career, Nicklaus has won a record 18 majors, including six Masters, four U.S. Opens, three British Opens and five PGA Championships.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Jamie Moyer","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_JamieMoyer.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Jonathan Daniel", "Getty Images", "273", "364", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
His fastball may look like most pitchers' changeups, but Moyer's still going in the majors with the Phillies at 45.
Moyer has played for the Cubs, Rangers, Cardinals, Orioles, Red Sox, Mariners and Phillies and has a 232-180 record with a 4.21 ERA (through May 9, 2008).";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Jeff Feagles","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_JeffFeagles.vlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "left", "Andy Lyons", "Getty Images", "358", "271", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
It took 20 years, but Feagles finally won a Super Bowl at 41 with the New York Giants. The punter has played for the Patriots, Eagles, Cardinals, Seahawks and Giants.
Feagles holds the record for most consecutive games played, most punts, most punts inside the 20, most punting yards, and he's the oldest Super Bowl player ever. ";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Jeff Kent ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_JeffKent.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Lisa Blumenfeld", "Getty Images", "273", "420", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Not always the most likable guy, you can't deny Kent's offensive prowess. Still playing at age 40 for the Dodgers, Kent has hit more home runs than any other second baseman. He drove in 90 or more runs from 1997 to 2005, is a 5-time All-Star and won the NL MVP in 2000. He has played for the Blue Jays, Mets, Indians, Giants, Astros and Dodgers.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Jerry Rice","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_JerryRice.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Otto Greule Jr", "Getty Images", "273", "374", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Rice is widely regarded as the best wide receiver in NFL history. He's the all-time leader in every major statistical category at the position, was selected to 13 Pro Bowls, was named All-Pro 10 times and won three Super Bowls with the San Francisco 49ers.
He also played with the Raiders and Seahawks before retiring at the age of 42.
When Rice left the NFL his 1,549 receptions were 448 ahead of second- place Cris Carter. His 22,895 receiving yards were 7,961 more than runner-up Tim Brown. His 197 touchdown receptions were 67 ahead of next-best Carter, and his 208 touchdowns were 33 more than the next player on the list, Emmitt Smith.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","John Carney","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_JohnCarney.vlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "left", "Jamie Squire", "Getty Images", "327", "278", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
The kicker completed his 21st season in the NFL with the Kansas City Chiefs, but at age 44 he is currently an unsigned free agent.
Carney is ranked 4th on the NFL all-time scoring list with 1,749 points.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","John Franco ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_JohnFranco.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Nick Laham", "Getty Images", "273", "364", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Before retiring at 44, he played for the Reds, Mets and Astros. He finished with a 90-87 record, a 2.89 ERA and 424 saves.
His 1,119 career games pitched are an NL record and rank third overall. His 424 saves are the most ever by a lefty and rank third overall.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","John Smoltz ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_JohnSmoltz.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Rich Pilling", "MLB Photos via Getty Images", "273", "441", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Smoltz has dominated as a starter and closer since 1988 with the Braves. Still pitching at age 41, Smoltz has a 210-147 record, 154 saves, a 3.25 ERA and 3,011 strikeouts through April.
Smoltz was the Cy Young winner in 1996, is an eight-time All-Star and World Series champion (1995). He has led the NL in wins (1996, '06), saves ('02), innings ('96, '97) and strikeouts ('92, '96).";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","John Stockton","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_JohnStockton.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Brian Bahr", "Getty Images", "273", "321", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Certainly not one of the flashiest players in NBA history, Stockton played his entire career with the Utah Jazz before retiring at 41.
Stockton was a 10-time All-Star and was named to the NBA's 50th Anniversary All-Time Team. He a two-time All-NBA first-team pick and five-time All-Defensive second-team selection.
He finished with 19,711 points, 15,806 assists and 3,265 steals. He is the all-time leader in assists. He also won Olympic gold in 1992 and '96.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Julio Franco ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_JulioFranco.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Otto Greule Jr", "Getty Images", "273", "355", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Last year with the Braves, Franco was the oldest active player in the majors at 49.
He played shortstop, second base, first base and DH for the Phillies, Indians, Rangers, White Sox, Brewers, Rays, Braves and Mets.
He finished with a .298 batting average, 2,586 hits and 173 home runs. He was a three-time All Star and five-time Silver Slugger and was the 1990 All-Star Game MVP.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Karch Kiraly ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_KarchKiraly.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Kevin C. Cox", "Getty Images", "273", "471", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Kiraly is the only one to win Olympic gold medals in both indoor and beach volleyball.
He won a record 148 pro titles. Known for his pink cap, Kiiraly retired in 2007 at 47.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Kareem Abdul-Jabbar","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_KareemAbdulJabbar.vlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "left", "Mike Powell", "Getty Images", "316", "278", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
During his 20 years in the NBA, Abdul-Jabbar scored a record 38,387 points and won a record six MVPs. He was 42 when he retired.
He is a six-time NBA champ, a two-time Finals MVP and was named to the NBA's 50th Anniversary All-Time Team. His No. 33 was retired by UCLA, the Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Lakers.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Karl Malone","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_KarlMalone.vlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "left", "Jeff Haynes", "AFP/Getty Images", "297", "278", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
\"The Mailman\" never won an NBA title but was consistantly one of the league's best players. He is a two-time MVP and played for the Utah Jazz from 1985-2003 and one season with the Lakers before retiring at 40.
He was an 11-time All-NBA first-team pick, a three-time All-Defensive first-team selection, a 13-time All-Star and was named to the NBA's 50th Anniversary All-Time Team. He won Olympic gold in 1992 and '96.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Kenny Lofton ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_KennyLofton.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Gregory Shamus", "Getty Images", "273", "362", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
It's likely a matter of time before Lofton is signed by a contender. Known for his speed, Lofton has played for 10 different teams.
Through 2007, the 40-year old has compiled a .299 average, 781 RBIs and 622 steals. He is a six-time All-Star, four-time Gold Glove winner and drove in the NLCS winning run in 2002. He also holds the record for postseason stolen bases, the AL record for stolen bases by a rookie and the record for most different teams played for in the playoffs (6).";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Kenny Rogers ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_KennyRogers.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "G. Newman Lowrance", "Getty Images", "273", "409", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
At 43, Rogers is still pitching for the Tigers. He has a 213-147 record and a 4.23 ERA while playing for the Rangers, Yankees, A's, Mets, Rangers, Twins and Tigers.
Rogers is a five-time Gold Glove selection, a four-time All-Star and a World Series champion in 1996. He also has a 23-consecutive shutout inning streak in the postseason and pitched a perfect game in 1994.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Ken Shamrock ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_KenShamrock.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Jane Kalinowsky", "ASSOCIATED PRESS", "273", "382", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Once known as the \"World's Most Dangerous Man,\" Shamrock is 44 and still going at it in the world of Mixed Martial Arts. Shamrock has a 26-13-2 record. Twenty two of his wins have come via submission.
In between his stints as an MMA fighter, Shamrock has also tossed his hat into the squared circle of professional wrestling. He is a former Intercontinental Champion with World Wrestling Entertainment and is a former heavyweight champion with Total Nonstop Action.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Kevin Willis ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_KevinWillis.vlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "left", "Mark J. Terrill", "ASSOCIATED PRESS", "358", "258", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Staying in good shape allowed the muscular Willis to stay in the NBA until he was 44. Willis played for the Hawks, Heat, Warriors, Rockets, Raptors, Nuggets, Spurs and Mavericks.
Willis averaged 12.2 points and 8.4 rebounds per game over 20 NBA seasons.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Martina Navratilova ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_MartinaNavratilova.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Don Emmert", "AFP/Getty Images", "273", "485", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Navratilova is one of the greatest female tennis players of all-time, and she kept playing until just one month shy of 50. Navratilova won 18 Grand Slam singles titles, 31 Grand Slam women's doubles title (an all-time record) and 10 Grand Slam mixed doubles titles.
Navratilova's singles record was 1440-213 with 167 titles (record for men or women); her career record in doubles is 1044-183 with 177 titles (record for men or women).";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Michael Jordan","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_MichaelJordan.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Doug Pensinger", "Getty Images", "273", "395", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Thanks to his comeback with the Washington Wizards, Jordan was able to extend his playing career until he was 40.
Jordan is arguably the best basketball player of all time. He was a 6-time NBA champion, a 5-time MVP, a 6-time Finals MVP, a 10-time All-NBA first teamer, a 9-time All-defensive first teamer, the 1985 rookie of the year, a 14-time All-Star, a 3-time All-Star Game MVP, a 2-time NBA Slam Dunk champion and a member of the 50th anniversary all-time team.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Moises Alou ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_MoisesAlou.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Nick Laham", "Getty Images", "273", "447", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
At 41, Alou is still a dangerous hitter. With a career batting average of .303 and 332 home runs, Alou has played for the Pirates, Expos, Marlins, Astros, Cubs, Giants and Mets.
He is a six-time All-Star.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Morten Andersen","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_MortenAndersen.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Marc Serota", "Getty Images", "273", "351", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Andersen, 47, is the NFL's all-time leading scorer. He has kicked for the Saints, Falcons, Giants, Chiefs and Vikings. He is a seven-time Pro Bowl pick and was named to the 1980s and 1990s all-decade team. Andersen needs to play on or after Dec. 7, 2008, to surpass George Blanda as the oldest player in NFL history.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Moses Malone","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_MosesMalone.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "left", "Charlie Krupa", "AP", "273", "289", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Malone played until he was 40, completing 21 seasons with the Utah Stars (ABA), Spirits of St. Louis (ABA), Buffalo Braves, Rockets, 76ers, Bullets, Hawks, Bucks and Spurs.
He won an NBA title in 1983 and was named Finals MVP. He was a three-time MVP, four-time All-NBA first-team pick, a 12-time All-Star and was named to the NBA's 50th anniversary team.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Nolan Ryan ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_NolanRyan.vlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "left", "Tim Roberts", "AFP/Getty Images", "358", "215", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
The Ryan Express didn't leave the station until he was 46. Ryan played in a record 27 seasons for the Mets, Angles, Astros and Rangers.
He was known for his fastball, which was clocked at more than 100 mph even after reaching age 40. Ryan was an eight-time All-Star and his 5,714 strikeouts are the most in MLB history. Ryan holds the record for no-hitters with seven and was a first-ballot Hall of Famer.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Omar Vizquel","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_OmarVizquel.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Greg Trott", "Getty Images", "273", "439", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Even at age 41, Vizquel is one of the better defensive shortstops in baseball. He won nine consecutive Gold Gloves from 1993-2001 and won two more in 2005 and 2006. His fielding percentage of .995 is the higest of all-time for a shortstop.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Ricardo \"Pancho\" Gonzales ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_PanchoGonzales.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "", "Getty Images", "273", "363", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Gonzales was the world's No. 1 player for an unprecedented eight years in the 1950s and 1960s. He was also a successful amateur player, twice winning the U.S. Championships.
Playing until he was 43, Gonzales is one of the greatest to ever play.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Phil Niekro","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_PhilNiekro.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Gray Mortimore", "Getty Images", "273", "357", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
The Hall of Famer was fooling hitters with his knuckleball until age 48. Niekro played with the Braves, Yankees, Indians and Blue Jays and compiled a 318-274 record, a 3.35 ERA and 3,342 strikeouts.
Niekro was a five-time All-Star, a five-time Gold Glove winner, led the NL in complete games in 1974 and 1977-79 and holds the record for most innings pitched in the live-ball era.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Randy Johnson","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_RandyJohnson.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Jed Jacobsohn", "Getty Images", "273", "383", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
\"The Big Unit\" is 44 and still striking out hitters. He has been one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball, amassing a 288-151 record, a 3.24 ERA and 4,654 strikeouts.
Johnson has pitched for the Expos, Mariners, Astros, Diamondbacks and Yankees. He is a five-time Cy Young Award winner, a 10-time All-Star and a World Series champion. He led the AL in ERA in 1995 and the NL in ERA in 1999, 2001 and 2002. He led the NL in wins in 2002, the AL in strikeouts in 1992-95 and the NL in strikeouts in 1999-02 and 2004.
Johnson also pitched a perfect game on May 18, 2004.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Ric Flair","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_RicFlair.vlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "left", "Jeff Siner", "ASSOCIATED PRESS", "358", "245", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
\"The Nature Boy\" made his pro wrestling debut in 1972 and just recently retired at 59 after losing to Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 24. He is the most-decorated professional wrestler of all time and is a 16-time world champion.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Rickey Henderson","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_RickeyHenderson.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Jed Jacobsohn", "Getty Images", "273", "386", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Henderson's last major league game came at age 44, but he kept trying to make a comeback, even playing in the independent leagues. Henderson is the all-time MLB leader in stolen bases with 1,406 and runs scored with 2,295. He also had 3,055 hits.
Henderson played for the A's, Yankees, Blue Jays, Padres, Angels, Mets, Mariners, Red Sox and Dodgers. He was a 10-time All-Star, a two-time World Series champ, a Gold Glove winner, the 1990 AL MVP and the 1989 ALCS MVP. He also holds the record for most stolen bases in a single season with 130 and for career leadoff home runs with 81.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Robert Parish ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_RobertParrish.vlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "left", "Jonathan Daniel", "Getty Images", "358", "276", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
\"The Chief\" was able to keep trucking until age 43, playing for the Warriors, Celtics, Hornets and Bulls. He had 23,334 points, 14,715 rebounds and 2357 blocks.
He was a four-time NBA champ, a nine-time All-Star and was named to the 50th anniversary all-time team.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Roger Clemens ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_RogerClemens.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Jim Mcisaac", "Getty Images", "273", "341", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Marred by steroid controversy, \"The Rocket\" has put up some pretty gaudy numbers during a career which has extended until age 45. He has a 354-184 record, a 3.12 ERA and has 4,672 strikeouts.
Clemens has played for the Red Sox, Blue Jays, Yankees and Astros. He is a two-time World Series champ, a seven-time Cy Young Award winner, an MVP and 11-time All-Star. In 2004 he became the oldest pitcher to ever win the Cy Young.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Leroy \"Satchel\" Paige","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_SatchelPaige.vlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "left", "", "ASSOCIATED PRESS", "334", "278", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Paige pitched until he was 59. Spending much of his career in the Negro Leagues, he recorded an MLB record of 28-31, a 3.29 ERA and 288 strikeouts.
Paige was an All-Star in 1952 and 1953 and was the first Negro League player inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. On July 28, 2006, a statue of Paige was unveiled in Cooper Park in Cooperstown commemorating the contributions of the Negro Leagues.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Tom Glavine ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_TomGlavine.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Mike Zarrilli", "Getty Images", "273", "422", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Much like his current and ex-Braves teammates John Smoltz and Greg Maddux, Glavine is into his 40s (42), but still succeeding. Glavine has a 305-200 record, a 3.51 ERA and 2,592 strikeouts with the Braves and Mets.
He is a five-time 20-game winner and a two-time Cy Young Award winner. He's one of only 23 pitchers with 300 wins and is a 10-time All-Star.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Tom Seaver ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_TomSeaver.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Jonathan Daniel", "Getty Images", "273", "368", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Pitching until he was 41, Seaver had a 311-205 record, 3,640 strikeouts and a 2.86 ERA while playing for the Mets, Reds, White Sox and Red Sox.
He was a 12-time All-Star, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, the 1967 NL Rookie of the Year and pitched a no-hitter in 1978.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Vinny Testaverde","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_VinnyTestaverde.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Streeter Lecka", "Getty Images", "273", "370", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Testaverde is 44 but keeps finding teams to play for because of his conditioning and arm strength. He holds the NFL record for consecutive seasons with a touchdown pass with 21. He has thrown touchdown passes to a record 70 different players.
Playing for the Buccaneers, Browns, Raves, Jets, Cowboys, Patriots and Panthers, Testaverde has 275 TDs and 46,233 yards. His is a two-time Pro Bowl selection and is the oldest quarterback to win an NFL game at 44.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Warren Moon","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_WarrenMoon.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Todd Rosenberg", "Getty Images", "273", "395", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Moon, who played until he was 44, is the only player to be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Canadian Football Hall of Fame. His 9,205 pass attempts are the most in pro football history.
Moon played for the Edmonton Eskimos, Houston Oilers, Vikings, Seahawks and Chiefs. He's a nine-time Pro Bowl pick, a three-time All Pro, the 1990 Offensive Player of the Year, the 1989 Man of the Year and the 1997 Pro Bowl MVP.";
spt_OldAthletes[i++] = new Array("","Warren Spahn ","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/NBCSports/Sections/Personal/Williams%2C%20Ed/Photos/Old%20Athletes/old_WarrenSpahn.hlarge.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "", "Hulton Archive", "Getty Images", "273", "370", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
spt_OldAthletes[i-1].body = "
Spahn is widely considered the best left-handed pitcher in MLB history, and he pitched until age 44. Spahn had a 363-245 record, a 3.09 ERA and 2,583 strikeouts.
He played for the Braves, Mets and Giants and was a 14-time All-Star and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1973.";
// END editorial data