Keitherson Fernezan and other Cuffee Cares Club members hearing stories and receiving words of wisdom from Paul Cuffee Upper School neighbor, Bob
Thanks to the Cuffee Cares Club, which focuses on serving the needs of people in our community, an extraordinary meeting unfolded at a senior center on Elmwood Avenue in Providence—one that spanned generations and celebrated the timeless bond of passion and purpose.
Senior center resident Bob and 12th grader Keitherson Fernezan may have been born nearly 70 years apart, but when they met, they discovered a connection that was undeniable.
Both call Elmwood Avenue in Providence, RI, home. Both have a deep love for history. And both have run the 100-meter dash in an impressive 11 seconds. But their differences also paint a vivid picture: Bob, born in 1940, is a white man who led out of the blocks with his left foot. Keitherson, born in 2008, is a Black teenager who explodes off the line with his right.
As Keitherson trains for his upcoming meets, Bob—now in his 80s—shared advice and stories, gems of wisdom earned from decades on the track. He once raced in the Olympic trials, where he competed against Bob Hayes, the man who would go on to be known as the fastest in the world. Bob proudly showed Keitherson an old photo of himself finishing just behind Hayes, securing third place by a fraction of a second.
Their conversation was more than a casual chat—it was a moment of deep connection. They talked about races, and they talked about race. Bob spoke of his closest teammate in the 1960s, a Black sprinter with whom he shared not just relay passes, but mutual respect and camaraderie. “Race was never a factor,” Bob said. “We were both sprinters who loved to race—regardless of our race.”
Keitherson was captivated. “I could listen to his stories all day. I didn’t want to leave,” he said with a wide smile. He plans to keep visiting Bob, soaking up every story, every tip, every piece of hard-earned wisdom from a man whose legacy is still running strong.
And as for Bob? When asked about his past, he said modestly, “I hate to brag about things.”
But brag he did—and rightly so. Because his race, both on the track and in life, has been nothing short of legendary.
And now, with Keitherson lacing up his spikes, it’s clear: another legend is on the rise.