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US Runner, 105, Sets New World Record For 100m Sprint - But Feels Disappointed She Wasn't Faster

US Runner, 105, Sets New World Record For 100m Sprint - But Feels Disappointed She Wasn't Faster

Julia Hawkins recorded a time of 62.95 seconds, but felt disappointed that she hadn’t managed an even faster time.

Jess Hardiman

Jess Hardiman

A 105-year-old woman managed to break the 100-metre sprint world record for her age group - but admitted she felt disappointed that she didn't break it by more.

Julia 'Hurricane' Hawkins made history when she competed at the 2021 Louisiana Senior Games competition in Hammon, Louisiana, on Saturday 6 November.

Growing Bolder/National Senior Games Association

According to the National Senior Games Association, she has become first female track and field athlete - and first American - to set a world record in the 100-metre dash for the 105+ division.

Hawkins recorded a time of 62.95 seconds, but felt disappointed that she hadn't managed an even faster time.

"It was wonderful to see so many family members and friends," she told Growing Bolder.

"But I wanted to do it in less than a minute."

Saying others should just 'stay healthy and keep running', Hawkins added: "I'm going to keep running as long as I can. I find it fun and I like doing it."

The retired teacher started competing at the National Senior Games when she was 80, but it wasn't until she turned 100 that she began sprinting.

Speaking to USA Today Hawkins explained: "When I started running, I found it was a pleasure. I enjoyed doing it.

"So it was a new challenge, and I took to it like a duck to water.

"I felt that would be a neat challenge to run the 100 [metre] dash, at 100, in under a minute."

National Senior Games Association

She said she doesn't run every day anymore but makes sure she stays active, often walking or jogging about a mile each day - sometimes two.

Hawkins continued: "The older you get, the more passions you ought to have... Keeping active is one of my most important passions.

"I keep thinking, 'Why am I left here?' Why haven't I been called by now?'

Growing Bolder/National Senior Games Association

"People say that they want to be just like me when they grow up... And I think if I can please people and give them hope, then it's worth living longer."

Her passion for gardening also keeps her busy, caring for her beautiful garden at home that's filled with flowers and bonsai trees.

Hawkins' late husband of 70 years sadly passed away when he was 96, but she said she thinks of him as her 'little angel' looking over her.

Featured Image Credit: Growing Bolder/National Senior Games Association

Topics: News, US News