VANCOUVER – It took 100-year-old Indian runner Man Kaur almost a minute and a half to complete the 100-metre race, but she never broke her stride.

And when she finally crossed the finish line at the Americas Masters Games in Vancouver, her competitors – many of them two decades younger – were there to cheer her on.

Her son and fellow athletes say Kaur’s energy and drive to compete has become an inspiration to participants in the unique international event for athletes over 30.

Kaur began running at age 93 at the suggestion of her son, 78-year-old Gurdev Singh, who also competes in the Masters Games and says he knew she could become a star in her age category.

She has won more than 20 medals, including snatching three golds this week as she is the only competitor in the category for women over 100.

If you’re wondering whether she holds the elusive secret to a long life, Kaur says unfortunately it’s what you might expect – a good diet and lots of exercise.

The Canadian Press