James “Dave” McCoy

Senior Athlete

James “Dave” McCoy was born in Ravenden Springs, Arkansas on October 10, 1931. After serving as a Navy corpsman stationed with the Marines on the front lines of Korea, Dave moved to Carthage in 1957. He and his wife Betty chose to make Carthage their home and raise their five children here.

Mr. McCoy worked as a lab and x-ray technician at McCune-Brooks Hospital for 40 years. During that time, he held state and national office positions in the American Registry of clinical Radiography Technologist where we worked to impact legislation and improve the certification process.  

Participating in sports has always been one of Dave’s passions. For years he coached and played city-league softball, as well as church and YMCA basketball. After retirement, he began participating in the Missouri State Senior Games and the Show-Me State Games. He currently holds over 20 state records at these events including: 200m, 400m, 800m, triple jump, discus, softball throw for distance, and more. In 2019 Dave was inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. In recognition of his success at these games and his exemplary sportsmanship, Dave was named Missouri’s Senior Male Athlete of the Year for 2022.

At 80 years old, Dave began distance running and enjoys participating in area 5ks. He currently holds five Missouri State Running Records including 1 mile (90 years and 91 years), 2 miles (88 years and 91 years) and 5k (87 years). Running in the 90 and over category often makes Dave one of the oldest runners participating and an inspiration to everyone.

 Dave is known around the Carthage community for his encouraging words and infectious joy for life and people. In addition to his sports activities he has acted in community theater productions, volunteered for various fund-raising events, and faithfully participates at his church.