When you reach 100 years old everyone wants to know your secret; some centenarians say chocolate, others say happiness and some even say wine.
But for 103-year-old Julia “Hurricane” Hawkins, her secret seems to be exercise, namely track racing.
The Louisiana sprinter has just earned the title of the oldest woman to compete on an American track completing the 50- and 100-meter dashes at the National Senior Games in New Mexico.
“I keep active all the time,” she said, according to the Daily Mail. “I have an acre of land. I work in it all the time. I have 30 bonsai bushes – some are 40 or 50 years old. That keeps me busy.”
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Event organizers say Julia is already a world record holder for her age group in the 100-meter dash.
She didn’t beat her record in this current race but still finished in 46 seconds. Julia ran the 50-meter dash in just over 21 seconds, according to the Daily Mail.
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Started running at 100 years old
The retired teacher started cycling competitively in her 80s, a sport she credits with giving her the strong legs she needs to sprint.
Her children suggested running and she gave herself the goal of competing in the 100-meter dash when she reached 100 years old.
Julia married Murray Hawkins, who served in the Navy and survived the bombing of Pearl Harbor, after which he asked Julia to marry him. The couple had four children.
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As well as regular exercise Julia credits her long life to healthy eating and not drinking or smoking.
This remarkable lady is living proof that it’s never too late to start something new, and you never know where it may lead.
I hope Julia continues to run and win races, she is a true inspiration. Please share if you agree
