103-Year-Old Julia ‘Hurricane’ Hawkins Win Titles At US Senior Games

Julia “Hurricane Hawkins”, aged 103 has won a title of the oldest woman to compete on an American track right after concluding a 50-and 100-meter race at the National Senior Games in New Mexico.

On Monday, Julia was timed at 21.06 in the 50 Meter event, which appeared to be a Senior Games record for women above the age of 100-plus division.  Being the first to compete in that category, the Louisiana resident already holds the world’s record for her age group dash. Previously, she didn’t beat her best bet on Tuesday but did cross the line in just 46 seconds.

103-year-old Julia Hawkins, of Baton Rouge, La., celebrates after completing the 50-meter dash at the 2019 National Senior Games in Albuquerque, N.M., Monday, June 17, 2019

According to Julia, a combination of things ranging from being a retired teacher to yard work around the home in Baton Rouge had kept her fit for the competition, adding that she had started cycling competitively when she was in her 80’s.

Over time a senior Olympics participant, Julia also revealed her children had suggested she try running since she was the only competitor in her age division. 

103-year-old Julia Hawkins, of Baton Rouge, La., competes in the 50-meter event at the 2019 National Senior Games in Albuquerque, N.M., Monday, June 17, 2019

“I hope I’m inspiring them to be healthy and to realize you can still be doing it at this kind of age.” Julia stated.

Her Knees, hip, and back, she said felt fine, crediting her years of cycling for her strong muscles and leg. But did mention her eyesight has been a major concern for her.

I’m hoping I can see well enough to stay in the white lines.”

Competitors in the 90+ age division, including 103-year-old Julia Hawkins, of Baton Rouge, La., wave to the crowd after their 50-meter race at the 2019 National Senior Games in Albuquerque, N.M., Monday, June 17, 2019.

Born in 1916, on February 6, Julia graduated with a teaching qualification from Louisiana State University in the year 1938. She met her husband, Murray Hawkins in the same university while she had taught in Honduras and the husband served in the Navy.

While Julia also credited eating balanced food as well as not smoking assisted her longevity, the couples had four children.