Age is Just a Number and Other Myths

I get so mad when I hear the phrase “age is just a number.” It’s a ridiculous over simplification, used in advertisements, news stories, and media coverage of elderly people doing the extraordinary. Masters athletes are extraordinary. They are complex, highly motivated examples of human potential. They have decades of life experiences to share. Many are accomplished in multiple areas and currently contribute back to society in both subtle and substantial ways. To feature the life of a master’s athlete only to sum up with “age is just a number” is a demeaning oversimplification.

In reality, aging is a process. A process that is unavoidable. It is magnificent to see men and women in their sixties, seventies, eighties and beyond push the limits of the biological and psychological impacts of the aging process. The youthful twinkle in the eyes of a group of ninety-year-olds racing to the finish of a two-hundred-meter sprint race has to be witnessed. Why? Not because of the time for the finisher but for the complex insight into multi-faceted men and women who share a window into their existence through the flash conveyed in that twinkle.

I ran the following question in my AI (Artificial Intelligence) program: “What are the positive qualities of a world-class seventy-year-old athlete?” The answer is below. The answer does convey what masters athletes truly relate to. Not just an oversimplified phrase. Take a read.

A world-class masters athlete embodies a remarkable combination of physical, mental, and emotional qualities. Their achievements inspire people of all ages and demonstrate the possibilities of lifelong health and commitment. Here are the key positive qualities they often possess:

1. Exceptional Physical Fitness
   • Strength and Endurance: Maintaining peak physical condition at 70 showcases discipline, resilience, and dedication to rigorous training.
   • Agility and Coordination: These athletes often demonstrate refined motor skills honed through decades of practice.
   • Health and Vitality: Their fitness level reflects a commitment to a healthy lifestyle, balancing exercise, nutrition, and recovery.
2. Mental Toughness
   • Focus and Discipline: Consistent training over decades requires an extraordinary ability to stay focused on long-term goals.
   • Resilience: Overcoming age-related challenges and setbacks requires a strong will and determination.
   • Adaptability: They continually adjust training routines and strategies to accommodate changes in their bodies while remaining competitive.
3. Experience and Wisdom
   • Mastery of Skills: Years of practice often result in deep expertise and the ability to refine techniques.
   • Strategic Thinking: Older athletes often excel in strategic aspects of their sport, using their experience to outsmart younger competitors.
   • Knowledge Sharing: Many serve as mentors, inspiring and coaching others in their sport.
4. Emotional Strength
   • Confidence: A lifetime of achievements builds self-assurance and mental clarity under pressure.
   • Passion and Joy: Their love for their sport and their enjoyment of competition shine through, inspiring others.
   • Humility: Many older athletes exhibit gratitude for their opportunities and an eagerness to support others in their journeys.
5. Role Model and Inspiration
   • Breaking Stereotypes: They challenge societal perceptions of aging, showing what is possible with dedication and care.
   • Encouraging Longevity: They prove that age is no barrier to high performance and inspire others to pursue fitness and health at any stage of life.
   • Community Leadership: Many serve as ambassadors for healthy living, promoting exercise and wellness among older populations.
6. Balance and Perspective
   • Holistic Living: They often balance athletic pursuits with family, community involvement, and personal development.
   • Gratitude: Many express appreciation for their health and opportunities, fostering a positive and inspiring outlook.
7. Commitment to Lifelong Learning
   • Innovative Training: They stay updated with advancements in sports science, adapting modern techniques to maintain their competitive edge.
   • Continuous Improvement: Their dedication to growth and self-betterment extends beyond their sport.

A world-class athlete is a testament to human potential, showing that with passion, discipline, and a growth mindset, excellence knows no age limits.

Would you like to run in an age-group World Championship? The World Masters Championship (WMA) will take place in Gainesville, Florida, from March 23 to 30, 2025. The WMA Championship is primarily an indoor event with a full schedule of indoor track and field events. HOWEVER, AN OUTDOOR 10K, CROSS COUNTRY, AND 10K RACE WALK ARE ON THE PROGRAM.

The WMA Championships are the premier masters Championships with high-level competition, but are open to all, as no performance entry standards are required. Age groups begin at 35 years + to over 100. Entries close on January 23, 2025. Full details, schedule, and registration can be found at https://wmaci2025.com/

For more information about the Masters Track and Field World Championships click below.