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Many aspire to maintain their health to engage with future generations, but few take it to the level of 70-year-old Wendy Alexis. Not only does she aim to be active for her grandchildren, but she also competes against runners who are often decades younger—and she frequently emerges victorious.
This year, Alexis shattered numerous records, including an impressive 14.64-second sprint in the 100 meters for her age group at the June Ottawa Summer Twilight #8 meet. This accomplishment solidifies her status as the fastest woman in the world at 70.
Returning to the track
Wendy’s story begins with a passion for running that ignited when she was just eight years old. As a teenager, she showcased her talent by competing at provincial levels and even set her sights on the Olympics for the 1972 Munich Games.
However, a severe injury at 19 led to double-shin surgery, and doctors warned her that running was no longer an option.
After a lengthy hiatus from the sport, Wendy embraced a different life filled with marriage, children, and a career in education.
It wasn’t until nearly three decades later, while watching her grandson compete, that she found her way back to the track.
A chance encounter
While attending her grandson’s event with the Ottawa Lions Track and Field club, a playful remark from him sparked a change.
He suggested she join some older participants nearby. This led Wendy to consider participating in a local Twilight meet, thinking it would be a one-time event. “I figured if it went horribly, nobody would remember,” she shared.
That day, she raced alongside her son and grandson, capturing a family photo that marked the beginning of her second running career.
However, after being approached by a coach who noticed her potential, she found herself contemplating a future in athletics once again.
Embracing the challenge
The very next day, Wendy found herself at her first track practice in over three decades, a commitment she has maintained for the last 20 years. Her journey has taken her across the globe, competing in events from Hungary to Sweden against athletes of all ages.
At the 2013 World Masters Championships in Torino, Wendy made headlines as the only female runner in an all-male relay team, which finished fourth overall. “It would have been quite the story if we had medaled,” she said with a chuckle, reflecting on the experience.
Dedication to training
To maintain her competitive edge, Wendy dedicates approximately 25 hours a week to training. This includes track practice four times a week, supplemented by weight training and deep water running on alternate days. “It feels like a part-time job,” she remarked, emphasizing the need for strength training to combat the natural decline in muscle mass associated with aging.
She also collaborates with a physiotherapist regularly, humorously referencing him as the one who “puts Humpty Dumpty back together again.” Wendy acknowledges that while she possesses the drive and talent, her achievements are a result of a well-rounded support system.
Inspiration and motivation
This year, Alexis shattered numerous records, including an impressive 14.64-second sprint in the 100 meters for her age group at the June Ottawa Summer Twilight #8 meet. This accomplishment solidifies her status as the fastest woman in the world at 70.0
This year, Alexis shattered numerous records, including an impressive 14.64-second sprint in the 100 meters for her age group at the June Ottawa Summer Twilight #8 meet. This accomplishment solidifies her status as the fastest woman in the world at 70.1
This year, Alexis shattered numerous records, including an impressive 14.64-second sprint in the 100 meters for her age group at the June Ottawa Summer Twilight #8 meet. This accomplishment solidifies her status as the fastest woman in the world at 70.2
