ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Athletics have always been an enjoyable part of life for High Desert resident Alvin Sallee. At age 5, he remembers sitting on the Lobos’ bench to watch basketball games coached by his cousin, Bill Stockton.  As a college freshman at Phillips University, Alvin ran the 880-yard event and played intramural quarterback.

Years passed and his busy career as a professor hindered his ability to stay active and fit.  In his 40s, he changed that when he joined an aerobics group for New Mexico State University administrators. He said, “I was the youngest by 20 years so the trainer suggested I run before the class. I took off at the pace I ran in college — for 50 yards.”  His instructor gave him some sound advice regarding that: “We are going to jog, not run.”

Alvin went on to chair the Athletic Council and ran the Boston Marathon, along with 27 other marathons.  As a young New Mexican Senior Olympian, he took second in the triathlon.

Then, starting in 2002, a major surgery every other year and 10 days in the Intensive Care Unit benched him for good.  “Or so the doctors predicted,” said Alvin.  “After 15 years, two more surgeries, and a loss of 50 pounds, I still felt the flame of competitiveness.” He got cleared by his doctor to start working out again.

Now in his 70s, he trains and competes as a triathlete in the endurance sport that includes swimming, cycling, and running.  Alvin attributes his athletic success to just the right “ingredients.”  He said, “I had a no-nonsense Pilates instructor who never accepted, ‘I can’t.’ Toss in perfect training plans from a wise professional coach, High Desert resident Laura Cobb.  And stir in the environment at the foot of the Sandia Mountains  —  dirt running trails, bike paths, high elevation, and nearby pools  —  and you have the recipe to self-satisfaction and medals.”

“Our son, Charles, often comes down from Santa Fe to run or bike with me,” said Alvin.  “Let’s just say we start together.” Both dad and son placed second in their division in the virtual 2020 Chicago Triathlon. They also recently placed second and third at the Cactus Man Triathlon in Tempe, AZ.  Alvin said, “I did great in the swim, and Charles was the fastest in his division. Not bad for two guys from the desert.”

Competitiveness is in Alvin’s genes.  His paternal grandfathers were baseball players, his great uncle won golf’s Texas Open, and his maternal grandfather coached Capitan High School to the New Mexico state championship in 1944. Alvin remembers hearing stories of his father’s games.  And though girls weren’t allowed to play sports back then, he calls his mother his “greatest influence.”  He said, “She channeled her energy into attending and remembering each game.  Named Miss Lobo, Mother was the #1 fan, whether it be track and field, basketball, or baseball. The head basketball coach attended her funeral, presenting us with a signed basketball.”

“At 71, I am amazed that I can do so much physically. I certainly was not blessed with any talent.” Alvin’s athletic activities have benefitted him in other ways.  “Exercising sparks my creative writing.”  You may recall from our January cover article featuring Alvin and his wife, Kathy, he writes in several genres.  His second maritime-themed book was released in June.

To be able to lead a full creative and athletic life, Alvin said, “It takes a team — support of my family, Kathy’s cooking, massage, coaching, and road trips with Charles. And my 9-year-old champion granddaughter, Violet, mocks me as ‘old man’ — that’s very motivational!”

Available on Amazon and Kindle

• Galveston Wharf Stories: Characters, Captains and Characters by Alvin L. Sallee
• Sea Stories: Galveston and Beyond by Alvin L. Sallee with Michael J. Leahy.

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