Ageless Wonders
Discover the incredible stories of centenarian athletes who defy the limits of age.
Lester Wright
Age: 100
A WWII veteran who earned four Bronze Battle Stars, Wright was also a successful dentist. He started running in the 1930s and was married to his high school sweetheart for over 80 years. His consistent training showcased a lifelong dedication to fitness.
Donald Pellmann
Age: 100
Set five world records in a single day at 100. He started competitive running at age 70 after a career at General Motors where he worked on the Apollo space program. His life motto was 'Someone has to do it'.
Hidekichi Miyazaki
Age: 105
Nicknamed 'Golden Bolt', he started sprinting in his 90s. He famously mimicked Usain Bolt's lightning pose and expressed a desire to race him. He attributed his health to daily exercise and mindful eating.
Ida Keeling
Age: 100
Began running at 67 to cope with personal tragedy. Her journey became a powerful example of using fitness for healing and resilience. She held multiple world records and believed in exercise for both body and mind.
Julia Hawkins
Age: 105
Nicknamed 'Hurricane', she transitioned from competitive cycling to running after turning 100. She advised everyone to 'stay active if you want to be healthy and happy' and to find 'magic moments' in everyday life.
Stanisław Kowalski
Age: 105
Became the oldest person in Europe to run a 100m race. He credited his longevity to never going to the doctor and doing whatever he wanted. He began running competitively at age 104.