A remarkable achievement was made at a recent masters meet in Dublin when 60-year-old Anne Gilshinan, from Wexford, Ireland, set a new world record in the indoor mile for the 60+ age category. She completed the race in 5 minutes and 27 seconds, surpassing the previous record of 5:30.73, set by American runner Sue McDonald earlier this year.
This stunning time translates to an average speed of 18 km/h and a pace of 3:23 per kilometer, a feat that demonstrates exceptional endurance and speed for any athlete, let alone someone over 60. Since moving into the W60-64 category in April, Gilshinan has been on a remarkable winning streak.
Earlier this year, at the 2024 World Masters Championships, she made history by becoming the first woman over 60 to break the five-minute barrier in the 1,500m, setting a world record with a time of 4:59.45. Gilshinan had already broken several records in the W55+ category, including the mile world record (5:08.47) before entering the W60-64 group.
Her inspiring journey has earned her recognition, including being named Masters Athlete of the Year by European Athletics in 2023. She has also received national honors in Ireland. Her latest mile world record is awaiting ratification by World Masters Athletics (WMA), but her achievement is already an inspiration to athletes everywhere.
Anne Gilshinan’s story proves that age is no barrier to athletic excellence, reminding us that it’s never too late to achieve extraordinary feats.
