Japanese runner sets sprint record at the age of 105

Miyazaki does the Bolt pose after setting the record for the oldest competitive sprinter

Japanese centenarian Hidekichi Miyazaki set a new record to become the world's oldest competitive sprinter this week just a day after he turned 105, reported Reuters. Miyazaki told reporters of his disappointment at not beating his personal best, however.

"I wanted to shave off a few more seconds, as I got 36 seconds while training," said Miyazaki, after completing the heats on Wednesday with a time of 42.22. His personal record is 34.10, which he set at the age of 103, remains unbeaten for anyone over the age of 100.

Miyazaki, who was born on Sept. 22, 1910, was only eight years old when World War One ended and 34 when Japan was defeated in World War Two. The 105-year-old started running in his 90s, after many of the friends with whom he had played the Japanese board game "Go" had passed away, according to Guinness World Records.

Asked the secret of his success, Miyazaki said he exercised daily, ate in moderation and chewed his food properly. “The doctors are all surprised. It’s all about being in good health,” said Miyazaki, who had celebrated his 105th birthday the day before the race. “The doctors gave me a medical examination a couple of days ago and I’m fit as a fiddle,” he told AFP.

He celebrated cheekily by striking Bolt's famous "lightning" pose before being presented with a certificate from Guinness officials.

When asked about Usain Bolt and his achievements at the World Championships he grinned and said “He hasn’t faced me yet.”

Bolt who said that his best is past him, in both the 100m and 200m at the World Championships at Beijing last month, but Miyazaki says his best is yet to come, “I can’t think about retiring,” said Miyazaki, who will compete in the Japanese masters championships next month. “I have to continue for a few more years, to show my gratitude to my fans.”

Edited by Staff Editor