Running News Daily

At an age when many people have long stepped away from competitive sport, 91-year-old American athletics sensation Florence “Flo” Meiler is continuing to rewrite the limits of what is possible in masters athletics, proving that determination, discipline and a passion for competition do not have an expiry date.

The remarkable athlete from Shelburne, Vermont, United States, has become an extraordinary figure in the masters athletics community, holding six World Masters Athletics records in the women's 90–94 age category. Her achievements span an impressive range of disciplines, including the 2,000m steeplechase, 80m hurdles, pole vault, high jump, triple jump and pentathlon.

What makes her story particularly remarkable is that Meiler did not begin competing in track and field until she was 60 years old. More than three decades later, she is still competing, setting records and inspiring athletes across generations.

Her introduction to athletics came through her close friend Barbara Jordan, who encouraged her to try the long jump at the Vermont Senior Games. What began as an opportunity to experience something new soon developed into a lifelong sporting passion.

The two friends went on to train and compete together for approximately 20 years, challenging one another and achieving remarkable success. Their partnership was more than a sporting relationship; it was built on friendship, encouragement and a shared determination to keep improving.

However, their journey together eventually came to an end after Jordan was diagnosed with cancer. She stopped participating in sport and passed away in 2020 at the age of 85. Meiler has openly spoken about missing her longtime friend, remembering the special bond they shared on and off the track.

Despite the emotional loss, Meiler has continued pursuing the passion they built together. Training without her longtime companion has not always been easy, but she has maintained her competitive determination and continues to honour those memories through her performances.

According to World Masters Athletics, her six world records in the 90–94 age category demonstrate extraordinary versatility, particularly in technically demanding events such as pole vault, hurdles and the multi-event pentathlon.

Her achievements are also a reminder that masters athletics offers opportunities for people to remain competitive, discover new sporting interests and pursue ambitious goals well beyond the conventional years of elite competition.

Beyond the records and medals, Meiler takes great satisfaction in knowing that her journey has encouraged other people to remain active and challenge themselves. She has spoken about the special feeling she gets when fellow athletes approach her to explain how much her achievements have inspired them.

Her philosophy is beautifully captured in three simple words she previously shared with the Olympic Channel: “Never too late.”

At 91, Flo Meiler is not simply collecting records; she is challenging perceptions about ageing and demonstrating that the desire to compete, improve and achieve something extraordinary can remain alive throughout life.

Her story is a powerful reminder that sporting dreams do not necessarily have to begin in childhood, and that some of the most remarkable journeys can start when others might assume the opportunity has already passed.

With every training session and competition, Meiler continues to make her mark on masters athletics, offering an inspiring example of resilience, friendship and lifelong dedication to sport.