Larry DeLucas 73

When it comes to pursuing what he really wants in life, Larry DeLucas can be relentless. It’s a trait he learned from his childhood hero, Boston Celtics star John Havlicek.

“I admired the way Havlicek would never quit,” said DeLucas. “Every time he got knocked down, he got right back up and worked harder.”

It was a lesson that would change his life. “In 1985 I saw the space shuttle lift off,” he said. “I never cry but I sure did then and I knew somehow, I had to experience it.”

DeLucas was a biochemist and NASA was looking for scientists to conduct experiments in space. “So, I applied, got turned down, applied, got turned down, and started to wonder if it would ever happen for me.”

Inspired by Havlicek, DeLucas was not about to quit. After six years of being rejected, NASA finally selected him. “And my dream came true, flying on the Space Shuttle Columbia in 1992.”

While in space, to pay homage to his hero, DeLucas became the first person ever to slam dunk a ball in orbit in zero gravity. “We had this little hoop with suction cups, so I took a ball, did a flip, bounced off a couple walls and over my head I slammed it through. You’re looking at the only person in the world to beat Michael Jordan’s hang time.”

Unlike Jordan, he did not get a shoe endorsement deal. Think of the missed opportunity to market a pair of “Space DeLucas” alongside Air Jordans! But his love of sports continues to this day.

Now 73, DeLucas is a regular on the bowling circuit, participating in a number of leagues and traveling across the country. “One of my favorites is the National Senior Games,” he said. “This is the second time I’ve entered, and it is so much fun,” he said. “It is the greatest feeling to meet so many motivated people close to my age. We share similar experiences -- mine may be a little far out, but we learn from each other, and I always come away so happy.”

DeLucas loves the camaraderie that comes from competition. He has a true appreciation and affection for others. He’s always been a people person, something reinforced by his experience in space. “One of the most powerful memories is looking back at the earth,” he explained. “I was so struck by its immense beauty. When you see it like that you notice there are no dividing lines between countries. It becomes obvious that we are all one on this planet and that we must find a way to live together.”

For DeLucas, participating in sports is his way of reaching out. He appreciates how bowling brings people together, and he sees what a benefit that is for others, and for himself.

“I'm probably going to bowl till I can't lift the ball anymore,” he said. “Between the social aspect, the competitive nature and the physical activity, I truly believe it will help keep me going as long as possible. As badly as I wanted to go to the stars, I sure love life on earth!”