On April 29, Lester Wright turned 100 years old.
The next day, he honored himself by participating in a race where he was heavily supported. He competed against 80-year-olds and didn’t come in last place.
During Philly’s Penn Relays, Wright ran the 100-meter dash. He completed it in 26 seconds. This race is the oldest and biggest track and field contest in the nation.
To add, Wright set a new record in the 100-meter world record for centenarians.
Wright began running after serving in World War II and after operating a dental lab in New Jersey.
When he was 76, he won the 200 meters. Now, at 100, he returned to run the 100 meters.
“I guess it’s really something that you don’t often hear about. It seems like it would be somewhat novel if I can get out there and really perform,” Wright stated.
“It’s up to him. If he wants to do it, that’s what he wants to do,” said Adele, Wright’s wife of 80 years.
