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Ana Laura Fray is an outstanding 47 year old masters runner who grew up in Mexico but now lives north of Toronto. She took up running in her mid-thirties but her marathoning career really started to take off after turning 40. She broke 3 hours for the first time at age 41 and by 44, she’d improved to her current personal best of 2:46. Over the past three years she’s been chasing 2:45 and despite getting into shape several times, she keeps coming up a bit short. This prompted her to reflect on the “Age Is Just a Number” platitude that surfaces whenever an older person accomplishes an impressive feat of athleticism. 

In this conversation we unpack the nuances behind this statement. Of course it’s true that there are athletes over 40 achieving personal bests and running incredibly well, but it’s also true that we don’t see 80 year olds at the Olympics in any sport. At some point age comes into play for all of us, and Ana is navigating the unknowable question of whether her fastest days are ahead of her, or behind her. But as long as her training stays strong and she finds joy in the process, Ana is not ready to retire from trying any time soon.

Resources we discussed in the episode:

• Age-grading
• Podcast series on female athlete considerations through perimenopause, menopause and beyond (sponsored by Canadian Masters Athletics)

Connect with Ana:

• Instagram: @analau_77
• Episode 160: 2023 P'Tit Train du Nord Marathon Winner 

Connect with Carolyn:

• Email me with guest ideas: [email protected]
• Inspired Soles Instagram: @inspiredsolescast
• Carolyn's Instagram: @carolyn.c.coffin

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