What is the record breaking performance in a 70 year old marathoner?

The human body's capacity for endurance can astonish at any age. In December 2018, runner Gene Dykes made headlines by achieving a monumental feat that reshaped our understanding of senior athleticism, leading many to ask: what is the record breaking performance in a 70 year old marathoner?

Quick Summary

The record-breaking performance for a 70-year-old male marathoner was set by Gene Dykes, who ran a time of 2:54:23 in December 2018, a feat that, though not officially ratified due to a technicality, showcased an incredible physiological ability and redefined expectations for masters athletes.

Key Points

• Gene Dykes's Achievement: At 70 years old, Gene Dykes ran a marathon in 2:54:23, an unofficial record that dramatically raised the bar for masters marathoners.

• Physiological Factors: Dykes's performance was attributed to a superior aerobic capacity and a remarkably high lactate threshold for his age, allowing him to sustain a fast pace.

• Strategic Training: His success highlights the importance of incorporating specific strategies for older athletes, including prioritizing recovery, quality over quantity in training, and incorporating strength and cross-training.

• Inspiration for Healthy Aging: His achievement demonstrates the immense health benefits of staying active in later life, including improved cardiovascular health, bone density, and cognitive function.

• Breaking Down Barriers: Dykes's story challenged the perception of aging and physical decline, inspiring other seniors and emphasizing that extraordinary achievements are possible later in life.

• Legacy in Masters Athletics: While another runner has since achieved a faster ratified time, Dykes's run remains a pivotal moment that cemented his place in masters running history and brought new attention to the M70+ age group.

The Story of Gene Dykes: #UltraGeezer's Triumph

In the world of masters athletics, where older competitors demonstrate that age is just a number, the name Gene Dykes stands out. A retired computer programmer from Pennsylvania, Dykes wasn't always a running phenomenon. He considered himself a mediocre runner in his youth, and only began seriously pursuing competitive running later in life. Yet, at the Jacksonville Marathon in December 2018, at the age of 70, Dykes crossed the finish line with a time of 2:54:23. This was a remarkable 25 seconds faster than the previous M70 record held by Canadian legend Ed Whitlock, a record once considered unbreakable. While a technicality regarding race sanctioning prevented the official world record from being ratified, his performance remains a legendary benchmark for masters athletes and a testament to what is possible in healthy aging.

The Physiological Edge: How Did He Do It?

Dykes's stunning performance led researchers, including some from the University of Delaware and the Mayo Clinic, to study his physiological profile to understand the science behind his speed. Their findings highlighted some fascinating insights into senior athleticism:

• Superior Aerobic Capacity (VO2 Max): His maximum oxygen uptake (VO2 max) was measured at 47mL O2/kg body mass/min, significantly higher than the average for men his age. While not elite-level for a younger runner, it's an incredibly high capacity for a septuagenarian, enabling him to sustain a faster pace.
• High Lactate Threshold: Researchers noted that Dykes's lactate threshold was much higher than other age-matched younger runners they tested. This allowed him to maintain a high percentage of his maximum oxygen uptake for the duration of the race, delaying the onset of fatigue.
• Effective Training and Recovery: Nicknamed "#UltraGeezer" by his wife, Dykes's training regimen is as impressive as his race day performance. He consistently puts in significant weekly mileage, often competing in multiple marathons and even ultramarathons in rapid succession. His unique ability to recover quickly is a major factor in his success.

The Masters M70 Record Progression

Dykes's 2:54:23 was a continuation of a long tradition of masters runners pushing the boundaries of what is thought to be possible. Though his time was technically unratified by the official body, it put the spotlight back on the age group record. In fact, his unofficial time was later surpassed by Joseph Schoonbroodt in 2022, who ran 2:54:19 at age 71. This shows a constant push forward in masters athletics.

Comparison of M70 Marathon Milestones

Attribute	Gene Dykes (2018)	Ed Whitlock (2004)	Joseph Schoonbroodt (2022)
Time	2:54:23	2:54:48	2:54:19
Age	70	73	71
Location	Jacksonville, Florida	Toronto, Canada	Visé, Belgium
Record Status	Unofficially Broke Record	Officially Held Record	Current Official Record
Key Takeaway	Highlighted the potential for high performance in older age with prolific racing and strong recovery.	Long-standing official record that was viewed as almost unbeatable; his name is synonymous with masters running.	Currently holds the official M70+ record, building on the legacy of Dykes and Whitlock.

Training Strategies for Senior Runners

Inspired by athletes like Dykes, many seniors are turning to running. While not everyone can achieve world-class speeds, a strategic approach can lead to immense success and health benefits.

1. Prioritize Recovery: As we age, our bodies take longer to repair. Incorporating longer recovery periods between hard workouts is crucial for preventing injury and ensuring adaptation.
2. Focus on Quality, Not Just Quantity: Instead of simply logging high mileage, older runners benefit from more quality-focused miles. This includes focused tempo runs and interval training rather than just increasing volume.
3. Build Gradually: A longer build-up period is key. Hal Higdon, a veteran marathoner and coach, suggests a full year of training with built-in recovery phases for older athletes.
4. Incorporate Strength and Cross-Training: Strength training helps to maintain bone density and muscle mass, which naturally decline with age. Cross-training like swimming or cycling reduces the impact on joints while maintaining cardiovascular fitness.
5. Listen to Your Body: Differentiating between standard muscle soreness and a potential injury is vital. An athlete like Dykes, who has had to contend with injuries, knows the importance of proper injury management and listening to his body.
6. Proper Hydration and Nutrition: A nutrient-dense diet is crucial for both fueling performance and recovery, with a focus on protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. Staying properly hydrated is equally important.

The Impact on Healthy Aging

The achievements of masters athletes like Gene Dykes serve as powerful motivation and clear evidence of the profound benefits of staying active in later life. Regular exercise is proven to improve cardiovascular health, increase bone density, boost cognitive function, and enhance overall well-being. A dedicated pursuit of fitness, whether competing for records or simply staying healthy, can dramatically improve quality of life and redefine what is possible in the senior years. The legacy of athletes like Dykes is not just in their speed, but in inspiring a generation to stay active and challenge perceived limitations. You can learn more about the scientific studies on Dykes and other masters athletes at the Pittsburgh Pepper Center.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Persistence

Gene Dykes's incredible 2:54:23 marathon at age 70 was more than just a fast race time. It was a demonstration of human resilience, dedication, and the potential for exceptional performance regardless of age. While official records may change hands, his story serves as a lasting inspiration, proving that with strategic training, a focus on recovery, and a passion for the sport, the best years might still be ahead. His nickname, #UltraGeezer, captures the spirit of a new era of seniors who are not just aging, but thriving and breaking new ground in athletics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the specific time of Gene Dykes's record-breaking performance?

At the Jacksonville Marathon in December 2018, Gene Dykes, at 70 years old, ran a marathon in a time of 2:54:23, unofficially beating the previous age group record.

Why wasn't Gene Dykes's record officially ratified?

The record was not officially sanctioned by USA Track and Field (USATF) because the Jacksonville Marathon course was certified but not sanctioned by the organization. This is a technicality that affects official record eligibility.

Who holds the current official world record for the M70+ age group?

The current official world record for the male 70-74 age group is held by Joseph Schoonbroodt from the Netherlands, who ran 2:54:19 in May 2022.

What training tips are recommended for older marathon runners?

Older marathon runners should focus on prioritizing recovery, incorporating strength and cross-training, and listening closely to their bodies to prevent injury. A longer, more gradual build-up to the marathon is often recommended.

What are the health benefits of running marathons for seniors?

Regular endurance exercise like running can significantly benefit seniors by improving cardiovascular health, increasing bone density, strengthening muscles, and boosting cognitive function.

What was Gene Dykes's training background before setting the record?

Gene Dykes was a lifelong casual runner who only started competing seriously in his mid-60s. He admitted to not being a star athlete in his youth, making his later success even more extraordinary.

How did researchers study Gene Dykes's performance?

Researchers conducted physiological testing on a treadmill to determine Dykes's maximum oxygen uptake (VO2 max), running economy, and lactate threshold. The study confirmed he possessed remarkable physiological traits for his age.