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Training after 50: How Doug Flutie keeps in shape and manages post-football pains

All-American honors, a Heisman Trophy, a miracle pass and a 21-year career in pro football: those are just a few of Doug Flutie’s incredible athletic achievements. But his 48-yard Hail Mary pass to beat Miami at the Orange Bowl pales in comparison to an even greater feat, a second ‘Hail Flutie’ perhaps, one that took place in San Francisco.

Flutie wasn’t ready to perform this athletic test. He thought he was going to promote the 2001 Escape From Alcatraz triathlon, but instead, his agent had signed him up to participate. The race, one day before he was due to report to San Diego Chargers training camp, involved a 1.