If someone were to tell me that 111-year old Bernando LaPallo has, in fact, seen it all, it would be hard to dispute. That, however, would not have been accurate, at least until incredibly well looking LaPallo arrived at Yankees Stadium this past weekend. It was the first visit to the Bronx Bombers’ new home for the centenarian, who looks about 30 or 40 years younger than his reported age. According to the lead video, LaPallo was born the same year the Yankees were established, and he remember being a fan back when they were called the Highlanders. He also has quite vivid memories of meeting one Babe Ruth.
As one might expect, when news of LaPallo’s visit got to the Yankees’ public relations office, they decided to roll out the red carpet for the distinguished fan, giving him access to the field and the players who make use of it:
On Saturday, though, LaPallo witnessed what he never thought he would. The 111-year-old was on the field before the Yankees’ game against the Red Sox, watching Robinson Cano, Mark Teixeira and many other players nearly 80 years younger than him take batting practice.
LaPallo met manager Joe Girardi and shortstop Derek Jeter before the game, but those are far from the most famous Yankees he’s ever shaken hands with. He still remembers meeting Babe Ruth when he first came to New York 93 years ago.
“I shook his hand and he said, ‘My greatest admirer, my youngest admirer,'” LaPallo said. “I remember that like yesterday.”
For those of you wondering how a man of his advanced age avoided getting run over by the facial wrinkles bus, LaPallo offered this rejuvenation tip:
He eats healthy, and he stays away from wild living and whiskey. He puts olive oil on his feet to avoid corns and calluses, and he rubs olive oil on his face to avoid wrinkles.
“Do I have any wrinkles?” LaPallo said. “I wouldn’t preach something I hadn’t practiced. I know it works.”
In this case, the proof is right in front of our faces. In other news, do you think you could stick by your favorite team for over 100 years?