Japanese Octogenarian Sets Skiing Record at 88
At 88 years old, Katsumi Saeki from Japan has become the world’s oldest competitive cross-country skier, breaking her own Guinness World Record. She achieved this remarkable feat at the 2023 Masters World Cup in Austria and now looks forward to the February 2024 Cup in Finland to further extend her legacy.
Born on March 3, 1935, Katsumi Saeki participated in the Japan Masters Championships last year, earning her the title of the world’s oldest female cross-country skier according to Guinness World Records.
Competing at the age of 88 years and 16 days, Katsumi entered the over-85 category at the Masters World Cup in Austria. Remarkably, she clocked faster timings in her two events compared to some of the younger participants.
During the 5 km classic-style event, she completed the course in 26 minutes and 18 seconds, surpassing competitors in age groups ranging from 71 to 85. In the 5 km freestyle event, she accomplished the race in an impressive 29 minutes and 4 seconds, outpacing skiers aged 76 to 85.
The Guinness World Records hailed Katsumi’s endurance and physical strength, noting that her ability to compete at such an advanced age showcases her remarkable health and core body strength.
As the next Masters World Cup approaches in Finland in February 2024, there’s optimism that Katsumi will continue to inspire by pushing the boundaries of age and athleticism.
Re-reported from the article originally published in NDTV
