This Sunday, Massey is set to compete in the Ironman Cairns, defying age stereotypes and proving that life’s second half can be just as thrilling and fulfilling as the first.

Massey’s journey into the world of triathlons wasn’t typical.

“I was never an inactive person, but I was never a runner, swimmer or cyclist,” Massey said.

“I was probably more like the original Jane Fonda girl, while running after three kids.

“At 47, my very best friend who I went to school with died of breast cancer.

“She left three children behind. I had three children and they were all very similar ages.

“A lot of us lose loved ones because of cancer and I vowed two things to myself.

“I would live life for both of us. I would say yes to every opportunity and I would grab life with both hands.

“The second thing is I would do everything in my power to stay as healthy as possible to kick cancer’s butt.”

Inspired by her friend’s memory, Massey embarked on a journey of self-discovery fuelled by a surging spirit.

Despite serious fears, Massey took on her first half marathon at 50, surprising herself and those around her.

From there, she never looked back. At 55 she completed her first full marathon.

Massey’s journey didn’t stop at running.

2009 saw her join the Can Too Foundation, a charity dedicated to cancer research.

It was there that she discovered a new passion: triathlon.

Learning to swim in her mid-50s was a daunting challenge, especially for someone with a fear of the ocean.

“(Originally from the UK), we’re taught to paddle not to swim,” she joked.

“I joined the program on the edge of Bondi Beach to learn how to swim in the ocean. I didn’t know at that stage how terrified I was at swimming, but I am completely terrified.

“I literally cried for nine of the 12-week program.”

Yet Massey persisted, facing her fears head-on and emerging stronger with each stroke.

Her determination led her to her first triathlon at 57 and her first half-Ironman at 60.

Now, at 70, Massey is gearing up for her fifth 70.3km Ironman, with the possibility of qualifying for the world championships in her age group.

Despite the challenges she’s faced and the obstacles in her path, she continues to defy expectations and push her limits.

Massey’s journey isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s about inspiring others to push the boundaries, regardless of age or circumstances.

“Why should old age define us?” Massey asked.

“And why shouldn’t we remain as healthy as we can?”

“I think it’s an achievement in itself at 70 to say no blood pressure tablets, no diabetes, able to do a half-Ironman, enjoy life and still saying yes to every opportunity.

“I like to think if in this part of my life, I can keep my mind active, help others become the best version of themselves and inspire people my age to be active.

“Then I’ve contributed back to what my best friend couldn’t, and I’ve lived life for both of us and I vowed I would always do that.”

Coach Renee Ker of TriMotivate Performance Triathlon Coaching said she was an inspiration.

“Anne is just so inspiring and a perfect example of it’s never too late to start,” Ker said.

“The fact that Anne never learnt to swim as a child and learnt how to swim late in life is amazing.

“I love the fact that our squad has both younger and older demographics. There is no excuse for the younger ones when Anne is battling it out right?

“Triathlon caters for everyone and after the professional level, triathlon offers age groups to race in, so it’s much fairer for all involved.

“I would not be surprised if Anne gets to represent her age group at the world championships either in the Ironman events or World Triathlon within the next year.”

Massey said she has the goal of completing a sprint triathlon at 85 years old.

As Massey prepares to take on the Ironman Cairns, she carries with her the memory of her dear friend and the promise she made to live life to the fullest.

With each stroke, pedal and stride, she’s proving that age is just a number and that the best is yet to come.

gyan-reece.rocha@news.com.au