High-octane octogenarians

MEDICAL LAKE - Just what are most 80-somethings doing regularly these days other than probably making sure their meds are in order?

Likely not what Gene Blankenship and Gary Blake do?

Both currently spend large parts of the days fueling their passion as coaches molding better young people.

Blankenship, the senior of the pair at 82 guides the track and cross-country programs at Medical Lake High School. Blake, who just turned 80 in April, has coached Cheney softball since 2004.

"I thought I was the only 80-plus coach in Washington State," Blankenship said in a quasi-disappointed tone when learn...