It’s a common misconception that old people don’t get up to that much. Well, think again! In fact, the older generation are full of surprises. From running marathons at 90 to breaking world records at 80, these oldies sure know how to stay young. That’s why we’re celebrating some of the unbelievable achievements of the over 50’s. Because you’re never too old! Prepare to be amazed. These young-at-heart go-getters are seriously inspiring. A reminder that you’re only as old as you feel. Age is just a number, after all.
Ground-breaking Theories
Famously known for his revolutionary work on evolution. Charles Darwin was 50 years old when he published ‘On the origin of the Species’ in 1859. This was the book that made his theory as famous as it is today.
An Artistic Masterpiece
The well-known painter, Pablo Picasso, was 55 when he completed his masterpiece, ‘Guernica’.
The Ultimate Fizzy Drink
The creator of Coca Cola, John Pemberton, was 55 years old when he came up with the famous recipe for the soft drink we know today as Coca-Cola.
Fantasy Fiction
The author of the much-loved series ‘Lord of the Rings’, J.R.R Tolkien, was 62 years old when he published the first volume of this story. A book that has become an essential read for many lovers of fantasy across the world.
Impressive Discoveries
The first instruments that study radioactivity was invented by a physicist called Sir William Crookes at 68 years of age.
Nobel Prize
Mother Theresa was 69 when she received the Nobel Peace prize for her great efforts with her charitable organisation, ‘Missionaries of Charity’.
Best-Selling Author
The famous English novelist, Mary Wesley, wrote 10 best-sellers after she was 70! Including ‘The Camomile Lawn’.
Flying around the World
At 72, Margaret Ringenberg flew all around the world.
Never lost for Words
The first English Language thesaurus was published in 1852 by Peter Mark Roget, who was 73 years old.
Exploring the North Pole
After surviving cancer, Barbara Hillary became the first black woman to reach the north pole. She was 75 years old, also making her one of the oldest.
Making History
You’re never too old to change the world! Nelson Mandela was 76 years old when he became the first president of South Africa.
Out of this World
John Glenn became the oldest person to venture out to space. He was 77 years old!
Reaching New Heights
At the age of 80, Japanese climber, Yuichiro Miura, reached the summit and became the oldest person to make it to the top.
Fashion Heroes
The world-famous Coco Chanel ruled a fashion empire at 85.
World Records
At the age of 86, Katherine Pelton beat the world record for the 200-metre butterfly. She did it in 3 minutes and 1.14 seconds. This was 20 seconds faster that the men’s world record for that age group.
Marathon Running
Running a marathon was no defeat for Gladys Burril. At 92, she became the oldest woman to complete a marathon. People often referred to her as the “Gladyator”.
Captain Tom
A beacon of hope in scary, uncertain times. During the coronavirus pandemic, war veteran, Tom Moore, raised over £15 million for the NHS. He did this by walking 100 laps around his garden. He turned 100 on the 30th April this year! Well done, Tom!
Skydiving at 100
A frightening experience at any age, yet to celebrate his 100th birthday, Fred Mack skydived for his second time. This was just 5 years after Mack’s first skydive, at 95. At 100 years of age, he completed a 13,000-foot tandem jump. Impressive!
Well, there you have it. It doesn’t matter what your age, anything is possible! These inspiring achievers have proved just that. Your age doesn’t define you and it certainly doesn’t stop you! Here’s to all the oldies out there who have done incredible things, despite their age.