Hiroshi Hoketsu: The oldest Olympian

At 71, Japan’s Hiroshi Hoketsu is the oldest athlete to compete in the 2012 Olympics. (John Macdougall / AFP / Getty Images)

Aug. 3, 2012 7:28 PM PT

Equestrian Hiroshi Hoketsu of Japan is, at age 71, the oldest Olympic athlete in 2012. Hoketsu’s first Olympics was in Tokyo in 1964. He says the London games will likely be his last.

Hiroshi Hoketsu of Japan rides Whisper in the equestrian dressage competition. (Markus Schreiber / Associated Press)

Hiroshi Hoketsu, 71, says the London Olympics likely will be his last. (Markus Schreiber / Associated Press)

Hiroshi Hoketsu from Japan first competed in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. (Markus Schreiber / Associated Press)

Hiroshi Hoketsu, 71, of Japan and his horse Whisper exit the ring after competing in the equestrian dressage competition in the London Olympics. (David Goldman / Associated Press)

World & Nation

Hiroshi Hoketsu: The oldest Olympian

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