Some people walk through life, and others sprint. Ida Keeling, a track and field athlete who started running in her 60s and went on to set world records in her 90s and beyond, is a shining example of the latter. Her journey as an athlete wasn’t just about breaking records—it was about resilience, perseverance, and choosing joy in the face of life’s hardships. She proved that it’s never too late to start something new and that age should never define what you’re capable of achieving.

She didn’t grow up running or dreaming of being an athlete. In fact, her journey to the track began after decades of raising her family and overcoming personal tragedy. Born in 1915, she lived through some of the toughest times in American history, including the Great Depression. She worked tirelessly to support her family and provide a better future for her children.

Her life took an unimaginable turn when she lost both of her sons to violence. Grief consumed her, but she found solace in the most unexpected place: the track. At the encouragement of her daughter, she started running in her 60s, not as a competitive athlete but as a way to heal her spirit. What began as a therapeutic activity quickly blossomed into a passion that would carry her through the rest of her life.

By her 80s, she was competing in track and field events, and her speed was turning heads. She didn’t just participate—she excelled. In 2011, at the age of 95, she set a world record for the

60-meter dash in her age group. And she didn’t stop there. In her 100s, she continued to shatter records, showing the world that physical fitness and athleticism are not reserved for the young.

Her achievements on the track weren’t just about winning medals. They were about inspiring others to challenge the limitations placed on them—whether by society or by themselves. She often said that her success wasn’t just about physical strength but also about mental fortitude and a refusal to give up. “Age is just a number,” she said, a mantra that resonated with everyone who heard her story.

Her life wasn’t easy, and that’s what made her accomplishments so extraordinary. Running became a symbol of her resilience and strength. Every race she ran was a testament to her determination to keep going, no matter what life threw at her.

She approached running with the same discipline and grit that she applied to every aspect of her life. Whether it was balancing work and family during difficult times or pushing herself to train for races in her later years, she embodied the idea that perseverance can overcome even the toughest challenges.

But it wasn’t just about resilience—it was also about joy. She loved running, and that love kept her motivated to train, compete, and inspire others. Her infectious smile and positive attitude made her a beloved figure on and off the track.

Her story holds powerful lessons for anyone, regardless of age or circumstance:

1. It’s Never Too Late to Start: She began running in her 60s and achieved global recognition in her 90s and 100s. Her story reminds us that it’s never too late to try something new.

• Physical Activity is for Everyone: She proved that staying active can improve not just your physical health but also your mental well-being, no matter your age.

• Resilience is Key: Life will bring hardships, but how you respond to them defines your path. She turned her pain into purpose and found healing in the process.

• Joy Fuels Success: Her passion for running kept her energized and excited to keep going. Finding joy in what you do can make all the difference.

• Inspire Others by Living Fully: She didn’t set out to be a role model, but her actions inspired people around the world to live boldly and break barriers.

Her journey wasn’t just about breaking records—it was about breaking stereotypes. Society often places limits on what older adults can or should do, but she defied every one of those expectations. Her strength and determination challenged the notion that aging means slowing down.

She believed that staying active was the key to living a fulfilling life. Her training routine, which included push-ups and strength exercises, was a testament to her commitment to her health and well-being. And it wasn’t just about the physical benefits—her positive outlook on life was a reflection of the energy and joy she gained from staying active.

Her incredible story is a reminder that it’s never too late to take control of your life, pursue a passion, or inspire others. Whether it’s running, painting, volunteering, or learning something new, the possibilities are endless when you refuse to let age hold you back.

Think about the people in your life who embody this spirit. Maybe it’s a grandparent who took up hiking, a neighbor who volunteers tirelessly in the community, or a friend who’s pursuing a new career in their 60s. Share their stories—or reflect on your own.

As Ida Keeling showed the world, the only limits we face are the ones we place on ourselves. So, what’s stopping you? Whether it’s lacing up your shoes or starting a new chapter, now is the perfect time to take that first step. Because life isn’t about how many years you’ve lived—it’s about how fully you’ve chosen to live them.