These over-60s prove you’re never too old to take on extreme adventures
Who says life stops at 60? Certainly not for these over-60s who are living proof that you’re never too “old” to start a new hobby – even ones that are considered too adventurous or extreme for over-60s. These amazing Over60 community members defy popular opinion that getting “old” means you should slow down. Instead, they prove these so called “twilight years” are the perfect time to discover new hobbies, passions and pleasures.
Just take Maggie Cameron who proves that age is no barrier for those seeking adventure. “Well, I might only be in my 70s but I have done a sky dive, three laps of Eastern Creek in a V8 super car, a helicopter ride, paddock bashed in a golf buggy and I am still planning more. All this after having three stents put into the main artery to my heart,” she says.
Many over-60s were keen to tell of their adventurous streaks that took hold later in life.
Jo Herring is just one of many over-60s who has discovered a love of dragon boat racing – a team paddling sport. She says there are “many over-60 paddlers and there are plenty of paddlers in that age group that are competing at race meetings all over our country and the world. It’s a great way to keep fit and you meet some lively and lovely people.”
“I went abseiling with my granddaughter in Vanuatu in the beginning of December and just loved it,” says 65-year-old Petra Van de Kamp.
Julie Wheeler completed her first skydive 12 years ago in her early 60s and “really wants to do It again.” Julie isn’t the only one with Sharon Bishop skydiving at 61 and Elaine Lorimer at 60.
Three generations climbed up the Sydney Harbour Bridge on Marie Hellmund’s 75th birthday. She reached the top with her two daughters and granddaughter by her side – an experience that we’re sure she won’t forget.
Lois McKinnon had her first motorbike ride at 72 and is looking to do it again. Graham Buddle took up snow skiing at the age 54 and scuba diving at 58. At 69, he’s still doing both with no plans to stop.
Margaret Owers and her husband, both 64, recently bought a kayak each and they just love paddling around in the nearby lake and rivers.
Golf grabbed Terry Aston in his mid-60s and as he says, fortunately won’t let go. He has some sage advice for anyone thinking it’s too late for new hobbies: “Never too old to ignite a passion and experience new challenges.”
It’s the same for Lynn Cooper who at 67 is playing golf and enjoying aqua aerobics. She says: “To me age is just a number, if you feel well and the joints are ok then do whatever makes you happy. My neighbour said to me, ‘Oh, I’m 62 and feel too old to join in a pool party.’
For Lynn, a number isn’t going to stop her enjoying a pool party – or trying new things. Just like it shouldn’t for any over-60s!
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