97-year-old skier completes final run Wednesday in Haverhill

Herb Oedel, left, completed his last ski run Wednesday after 90 years in the sport in Haverhill.Bradford Ski Area

A 97-year-old skier completed his final run Wednesday on a slope in Haverhill.

Herb Oedel, who lives in North Andover, had skied for 90 years, Ski Bradford wrote on Facebook.

“Congratulations Herb it has been a GREAT RUN!” the post read.

Oedel has visited the resort for the past few years and told staff on Wednesday it was his last day, Ski Patrol director Dennis Gauvin said.

“He’s decided to hang up his skis for good,” Gauvin said.

Oedel is still “mentally and physically very strong,” and is always a friendly presence on the slopes, Gauvin said.

“He’s befriended the staff,” Gauvin said. “He says hi to the patrollers every day he comes.”

Oedel was almost always accompanied by his 99-year-old wife, Ginny Oedel, who is his biggest supporter, the ski area said. She doesn’t ski but cheers him on from the sidelines.

“His wife tried skiing once, she told me,” Gauvin said. “She didn’t like it as much.”

Herb Oedel still plans on visiting the slopes, Gauvin said. He stopped by Thursday morning and is planning to come again next week, just to say hi.

“His attitude is great,” Gauvin said. “You would not think that he’s 97.″