A Japanese man has raced into the Guinness World Records after running 100m in 42.22 seconds in Kyoto, western Japan. Hidekichi Miyazaki – also known as the Golden Bolt – set the record in the over-105 age category, in which no mark had previously existed.
In spite of the impressive feat at the ripe old age of 105, Miyazaki insisted that he was not satisfied. Im not happy with the time, he told AFP. I started shedding tears during the race because I was going so slowly. Perhaps Im getting old!
In 2013, the twinkle-toed sprinter reportedly ran 100m in 38.35 seconds before issuing a throwdown to six-time Olympic gold medallist and the worlds fastest man, Usain Bolt. After yesterdays race, Miyazaki broke into Bolts signature To Di World pose.
Japan, which has the worlds highest life expectancy (on average women live to 87 and men to 80) has embraced Miyazaki, who has become somewhat of a poster boy for the older generation. And the fleet-footed runner declared: Im still a beginner, you know
Ill have to train harder. Training was going splendidly, so I had set myself a target of 35 seconds. I can still go faster.
I will say this: Im proud of my health. My brain might not be the sharpest but physically Im tip-top. Ive never had any health problems. The doctors are amazed by me. I can definitely keep on running for another two or three years.
Miyazaki, who stands 5ft tall and weighs 92lbs, also said that he still harbours hopes of racing Jamaican Usain Bolt. Two or three years ago Bolt came to Japan and said he wanted to meet me. There was a call about it but I was out and he left without meeting me. I felt deeply sorry, Miyazaki said.
Having taken up running in his early 90s, Miyazaki said: Its all about willpower. The sprinter is next scheduled to compete in next months Japanese Masters Championships.
