GLENS FALLS (NEWS10) - Pete Cloutier, a local radio host, has officially set a Guinness World Record for being the oldest person to play in a semi-professional football game. At 78 years old, Cloutier, who hosts WCKM-FM’s The Morning Club, suited up with the Glens Falls Greenjackets to break the previous record held by a man in his mid-60s from Florida.
The idea started as a fun challenge from Cloutier’s co-hosts. “Hank and Danny said, you know, it would be a great idea to put you out there and play a little bit of football,” Cloutier shared. After realizing he could break the record, Cloutier decided to give it a shot.
Dan Miner, Cloutier’s long-time co-host, explained that the event wasn’t just about the record but also about their commitment to charity. “Pete's been in the radio business for 60 years, so everybody around here knows who he is. But who wants to go see a 78-year-old man play football? Turns out, everybody.”
The record-breaking game was also a way to raise money for Operation Santa Claus, a local charity that helps provide clothing and food to more than 2,500 kids in 32 school districts. Cloutier and his radio team regularly raise over $100,000 a year for the cause through the Small Business Challenge.
For Cloutier, the charity aspect was the biggest motivator. “It was for a great cause,” he said. “Operation Santa Claus has been something we’ve been involved with for years. This is our 25th year of helping.”
Hank Pelton, owner of the Glens Falls Greenjackets, helped make Cloutier’s dream a reality by allowing him to join the team. “The guys on the team were a little confused at first,” Pelton recalled. “But once we explained why Pete was there, they took him under their wing.”
Cloutier’s record-setting game has turned into a memorable moment, showcasing not only his spirit but the strength of the community’s commitment to charity. To support Operation Santa Claus, you can donate at Operation Santa's website.
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