George J. Cretekos of Wellsville, NY was selected by a panel of judges, comprised of local Buffalo celebrities, as an ambassador to represent the Buffalo60Strong initiative. This program, sponsored by the Buffalo Medical Group, was seeking 12 individual’s ages 60 to 69 from the 8 WNY counties that have displayed and maintain a high degree of fitness along with strength in body, mind and spirit for the majority of their adult lives. In addition to their personal achievements, inspiring others was also a criterion for selection. Buffalo60Strong was developed to inspire all ages, in conjunction with promoting the launch of Senior Care Advantage ONE. George will have a feature page in the Buffalo60Strong 2021, 2022 and 2023 calendars. Proceeds from the calendar sales will benefit local charities.
At the age of 23, George contracted a rare viral
inflammatory disease that could have prevented any active participation in the
physical activities he now enjoys. Prescribed therapy, grit and determination
allowed him to overcome this and lead a highly active lifestyle.
George, 67, is currently a full time Officer/FTO with the
Allegany County Sheriff’s Office and a 25-year member of the Professional Ski
Instructors of America, having achieved their highest level of Skiing/Teaching
Certification, Alpine Level III. In
addition, George is a third generation Owner/Manager of Cretekos Brothers
Chocolates in Wellsville that was established in 1905 by his grandfather,
George J Cretekos, a Greek immigrant who came to the US in 1898.
For 52 years George has spent 100’s of hours of strength and
mobility training annually in order to live the demanding lifestyle he enjoys
today. “Physical training and diet are key components in building and
maintaining a body that resists injury and performs above the standards”.
Mr. Cretekos states, “I am extremely honored to have been
selected for this opportunity to represent “the seniors” and to hopefully set
an example for others to follow”. Remember this “aging is inevitable, growing
old is optional”. Furthermore, “Achieving any success, especially in sports,
can be physically and mentally painful at times but the personal rewards
received, the satisfaction of influencing others, along with witnessing their
successes, is very gratifying”.
For more information about the program and calendars go to www.buffalo60strong.com. (photo provided)