Athletes come in all shapes, sizes, and ages. It doesn’t matter what age you are, just do what you love in the way you do it best. If you want to start running, playing shuffleboard, swimming, biking, climbing, etc. in your 40’s, 50’s, or 60’s, go for it! There are many wonderful examples of athletes who started later in life or are still competing past what one might define as retirement years. Below are a few wonderful examples of athletes to look at for examples.
Born in 1921, Betty Ashley has won her age group multiple years in a row at the Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic 5K. She began walking at the young age of 89!
Sister Madonna Buder, born in 1930, is now a young 90-year old triathlete. She began her triathlon journey at age 52 and since then, she has completed 45 Ironman races and countless triathlons of many distances.
Some individuals come to their athletic lives later in life. For example, the YouTube video, “Seniors Push Athleticism to the Limit” shows great examples of seniors who are going after their dreams later in life. Then there are the National Senior Games where one must be a minimum of age 50 to qualify. So many great athletes to learn from!
Watching these athletes, the joy on their faces as they chase their dreams, creates such inspiration. Does it matter when one starts their athletic journey? Not at all! Start at age 2, 20, 40, 60, or other. Start because there is passion and joy for pursuing this journey. Listen to your body, take forward steps, and enjoy the process.