This is the amazing Gladys Burrill. On December 12th, 2010 this amazing little lady set the new World Record for the oldest women to complete a marathon (all 26.2 miles of it) at the astounding age of 92! Breaking the previous record held by Jenny Wood-Allen of Scotland who completed the London Marathon in 2002 at the age of 90. She has earned the nickname "Gladyator" by power walking/jogging 5 of the last 7 Honolulu Marathons. She missed 2008 due to the death of her husband days earlier and had to drop out of the 2009 race after a stomach bug sidelined her halfway though the race. She completed the 2010 race in 9 hours and 53 minutes which is a 22:38 pace. I don't know many 92 year olds that can walk 1 mile in 22 minutes (and as a Physical Therapist I know A LOT of 92 year olds) much less 26.2 of them! Shoot, I know some 30 year olds that would complain at that pace.
Gladys leads a very active life. Prior to becoming a marathoner at the age of 86, Gladys was a mutli-engine aircraft pilot, mountain climber, desert hiker, and horseback rider. Even when she is not in training she walks about 45 miles a week.
Her advice for others wanting to live a long and healthy life: "Just get out there and walk or run. I like walking because you can stop and smell the roses, but it's a rarity that I stop." She attributes her success as a marathoner to her positive attitude. "It's so important to think positive. It's easy to get discouraged and be negative. It makes such a difference in how you feel and your outlook on everything."
Watch out Gladys! I just might break your record in 62 years! :)
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