It’s been said a million times before but it’s true—age is just a number. What matters more is what you do with that number than the number itself. All around us, numerous people have smashed the stereotypes of what it means to be a certain age as they climb mountains & swim oceans, among other things. From 18 to 80, they’ve still got game! Here are ten times that people did just that. They showed us that no matter how many candles are on your birthday cake, you have the power to make your dreams come true.
Featured Image Credit: IgorTishenko /Depositphotos.com.
The Centenarian Who Could Bend
Tao Porchon-Lynch lived a life that could easily fill a dozen lifetimes. She taught yoga & competed in dance contests right up until she passed away at 101—she even held the title of the world’s oldest yoga teacher! Tao showed everyone that your spirit doesn’t have to age even if your body does. Doing what you love keeps you young at heart!
The Senior Space Explorer
John Glenn wasn’t someone who believed in sitting still. After he made history as the first American to orbit Earth, he decided that space was too good to visit just once—so he strapped himself into the Space Shuttle Discovery at the age of 77. Clearly, adventure has no age limit! His 1998 mission was a message to seniors everywhere that it’s never too late to follow your dreams.
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The 100-Year-Old Marathon Man
At the incredible age of 100, Fauja Singh completed the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, earning him a well-deserved spot in the Guinness World Records. But for Singh, the records weren’t the important part—it was the run. He was dedicated to running even in his later years. As such, his story teaches us about the human spirit and how barriers are sometimes just in our minds.
The Super Senior Grad
Nola Ochs is proof positive that you’re never too old to learn something new. She graduated from Fort Hays State University at 95 to become the world’s oldest college graduate. She turned the traditional idea of education on its head! Age should never stop you from learning. Whatever you want to do in life, you’re always capable of achieving it.
The Tech-Savvy Octogenarian
While most of us think of technology as the playground of the young, Masako Wakamiya stands as an example of the older generation taking part in the digital age. She launched an iPhone app, Hinadan, at the age of 81, breaking through the tech industry’s age barriers. Seniors everywhere can use technology and continue learning. The digital sphere has room for everyone.
The Bodybuilding Grandma
Ernestine Shepherd defied aging when she was declared the oldest competitive female bodybuilder at 73. Yes, her story teaches us about lifting weights. But it also shows us that we can lift spirits, too—and fight the idea of what seniors can achieve. No matter your age, you’ve never missed your chance to get in shape.
The Fearless Climber
Doris Long was affectionately known as “Daring Doris” and she took up industrial tower climbing in her 80s. Yes, really! She continued to achieve record-breaking climbs well into her 100s and her story shows us that we should live life to the fullest regardless of our age. In fact, life can be just as exciting and fulfilling in your later years.
The Elementary School Student
At 84, Kimani Maruge decided to start primary school. He was committed to learning how to read and write—and he did this at an age when most people are long retired. It’s a rather heartwarming story. Better yet, Maruge set a Guinness World Record in the process and inspired people worldwide. Don’t allow age to stop you from your new beginnings & follow your lifelong dreams!
The Century Sprinter
It sounds crazy but it’s true—Julia Hawkins set a record as the oldest female athlete to compete in the USA Track and Field Outdoors Masters Championships. She was 101! Hawkins didn’t stop there and went on to break the 100-meter dash record for women over 100. She became affectionately known as “Hurricane Hawkins.” You can be fast and furious at any age!
The Ironman Legend
Lew Hollander holds the record for being the oldest person to complete an Ironman Triathlon—and he did this at 85 years old. This grueling race includes a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a marathon 26.2-mile run. Most people wouldn’t even bother with doing this! But Lew? He took it as just another day’s challenge as his philosophy is to keep moving & you’ll keep improving.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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