In an awe-inspiring display of strength, perseverance, and timeless passion, 99-year-old Betty Brussel, a Dutch-Canadian swimmer, has shattered not one, but three world swimming records in a single day—proving that greatness knows no age.
Competing in the 100–104 age category at a Victoria Masters Swim Club meet earlier this year, Betty rewrote the history books by setting records in:
- 400-meter freestyle – 12 minutes and 50 seconds
- 50-meter backstroke
- 50-meter breaststroke
Betty began competitive swimming only at age 68, but her commitment to the sport and active lifestyle has kept her at the top of her game well into her nineties. “I just love being in the water,” she shared after her record-breaking performance. “I always feel better when I get out than when I go in.”
Wearing a hearing aid and with a pacemaker in place, Betty is a beacon of resilience, continuing to train twice a week with her local swim club in White Rock, British Columbia. Her coach and teammates describe her as a constant source of motivation, not just for seniors but for athletes of all ages.
Betty’s journey is not only a celebration of physical achievement but also a statement about the power of purpose, consistency, and lifelong joy. As she approaches her 100th birthday, she shows no signs of slowing down—and no plans to stop swimming.
Her incredible feat has inspired people around the globe, redefining what’s possible at any age and offering a powerful reminder: it’s never too late to dive into your dreams.
Saanich, Canada, In an awe-inspiring display of strength, perseverance, and timeless passion, 99-year-old Betty Brussel, a Dutch-Canadian swimmer, has shattered not one, but three world swimming records in a single day—proving that greatness knows no age.
Competing in the 100–104 age category at a Victoria Masters Swim Club meet earlier this year, Betty rewrote the history books by setting records in:
- 400-meter freestyle – 12 minutes and 50 seconds
- 50-meter backstroke
- 50-meter breaststroke
Betty began competitive swimming only at age 68, but her commitment to the sport and active lifestyle has kept her at the top of her game well into her nineties. “I just love being in the water,” she shared after her record-breaking performance. “I always feel better when I get out than when I go in.”
Wearing a hearing aid and with a pacemaker in place, Betty is a beacon of resilience, continuing to train twice a week with her local swim club in White Rock, British Columbia. Her coach and teammates describe her as a constant source of motivation, not just for seniors but for athletes of all ages.
Betty’s journey is not only a celebration of physical achievement but also a statement about the power of purpose, consistency, and lifelong joy. As she approaches her 100th birthday, she shows no signs of slowing down—and no plans to stop swimming.
Her incredible feat has inspired people around the globe, redefining what’s possible at any age and offering a powerful reminder: it’s never too late to dive into your dreams.
