Nearly 90-year-old Kailua athlete still dominates the softball diamond

News admin September 24, 2026 0 Comments

Nearly 90-year-old Kailua athlete still dominates the softball diamond

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Age is just a number for Francis Lum, who hits the softball diamond weekly to show that staying active, has no expiration date.

Turning 90 years old in about a week, Lum is the oldest player in the Makule League, an Oahu senior softball league where he either pitches or acts as catcher on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. He’s been playing in the league for 30 years.

“Softball is an exercise. It’s hand-eye coordination,” said teammate Paul Merino. “And Francis, God bless Francis as a pitcher—that’s like the hardest job. He’s really a good pitcher, he’s been pitching a long time, and it’s an honor to play with him.”

Fellow teammate Gareth Kai echoed that sentiment, calling Lum an everyday inspiration. “To me, it’s amazing what he can do… I mean, he can still drive and pitch and hit,” Kai said.

Lum’s lifelong passion for athletics began early, sparked by legendary Olympian Jim Thorpe.

Growing up, Lum ran from his family home to Kailua Intermediate School to build his endurance. He soon picked up volleyball during lunch periods before discovering sandlot softball, where his natural talent drew the attention of scouts who encouraged him to attend Punahou School.

At Punahou, Lum became a track-and-field standout, competing across hurdles, shot put, broad jump, and high jump—breaking a school record the very first time he attempted the high jump. He was also a key player on the Buff ‘n Blue football team alongside Al Harrington, helping lead the program to the 1953 ILH championship and snapping a 29-year title drought.

Following high school, Lum served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. Today, he still lives in Kailua in the home his father built 86 years ago.

His resilience extends far beyond the athletic field.

Over the decades, Lum has survived being shot in Vietnam, endured third-degree burns across his legs from a home gas-dryer explosion, and underwent emergency trauma surgery after being struck by a vehicle in Kailua nearly three years ago.

“I just want him to know I’m proud of him, you know, my grandchildren come every summer and they’re so excited to see their great grandpa,” said Lum’s daughter, Marie Pier Lum.

For Lum, taking the mound three days a week is about fitness, friendship, and maintaining purpose.

“It motivates me to get out of bed,” Lum said. “Softball’s turned more into an exercise bit for me, but it’s still a sport… There are so many guys that come out just to play for the fun of the game, the camaraderie, the enjoyment. Those guys are really a treat for me to be able to play with.”

When asked what advice he has for the next generation, Lum’s secret to longevity is simple:

“Don’t grow old. Because I find that if I hang around with old people, I move and act like old people.”

Lum turns 90 on October 2nd. His other tip for longevity, drinking Budweiser and eating ice cream.