The inspirational story of a 91-year-old marathon runner

If ever you think a marathon might be beyond you, consider the story of Larry Cole. This runner only took up marathons at the age of 72 - and is still going strong!

In the city of Weymouth, Massachusetts, Cole is often seen jogging down the street, but few would imagine he is now a seasoned marathon runner, who has completed nine races, including three in Boston as well as two Marine Corps Marathons.

He originally began running at his high school Vermont Academy in 1951, but didn't run a marathon until 2006, when he was invited to represent the American Stroke Association at the age of 73.

In 2019, he became the oldest finisher in the Boston Marathon, by which time he was 85. When asked why he did it, he said he enjoyed the races but also valued the post-race party with friends and a beer. But it hasn’t been an easy journey.

A veteran of the Korean War, Cole has endured numerous physical obstacles, including painful hip bursitis (he has had a hip replacement) and lower back osteoarthritis in his lower back, for which he wears a brace under his clothing. With an irregular heartbeat, he is also on his third pacemaker, and has had radiation therapy for prostate cancer. His ability to come back from each has been impressive and won great admiration.

If you're an older runner and feel inspired by Larry Cole’s life story, contact top marathon coach Maximum Mileage Coaching today for ultimate marathon running tips.