If I’m a very good 73 year old gardener I would be more laid back about it all and withdraw from competition for three years. Let others win the prizes and become a judge perhaps. After three years go at it again. I don’t get the compulsion to be so competitive when you are in retirement
Kids these days,got no gumption
At 73 he’s probably staying fit through his gardening and appreciating the extra time he’s earned in his retirement - and doing something productive.
Why should he (he’s offered to share his knowledge with anyone who wants to learn) step back so someone with lesser skill can get a silver bowl or a plaque to hang on their wall?
I say, “Keep up the great example David Stirzaker! You are an inspiration to us all! Bravo! Job well done!”
Too many students’ parents slap that old “My Child is an Honor Student” sticker on their cars. It’s how teachers’ unions make parents believe their kids are brilliant and that public schools are teaching.
The proof is in the pudding.
Apparently Mr. Stirzaker’s gardening skill is evident when the fruit of his labors are displayed.
What you suggest would be the gracious thing to do but some people are just very driven and competitive.
He sounds like he might be a bit of a crank but whatever. People like him are a reality in life and I don’t think that forcing him to sit out the competitions are a good idea.
I don’t get the compulsion to be so competitive when you are in retirement
^^^
Retiring does not knock out one’s competitive spirit. Whatever I do, I want to do my very best. I have not the least bit of interest in working in my former field, but I go at my current activities with as much energy as I had put into my professional work.
Hay I’ve got an idea.
Why not just give the prize to the mediocre to begin with, then he can enter and have no chance of winning?
Strive to be mediocre, that’s the way to do it.