University of North Carolina legend, Bobby Gersten, celebrates 99th birthday at Old Well

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) -- Known as the great-granddaddy of UNC Athletics, Bobby Gersten was on campus Monday to celebrate his 99th birthday.

Gersten is Carolina's oldest living athlete.
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He played basketball and baseball for the Tar Heels.

In 1942, Gersten was honored with the Patterson Award for his leadership in athletics.
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He also served three years in the Air Force during World War II before returning to his hometown of Long Island to coach.

In 2015, Gersten co-founded the UNC Walk for Health, a non-profit that promotes healthy, long living.