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99-Year-Old Swimmer Shatters Three World Records in Single Day

Betty Brussel, set to turn 100 in July, credits her active lifestyle and positive attitude for her record-breaking performance and longevity.

  • 99-year-old Betty Brussel broke three world records in the 100-to-104-year-old age group in a single day, setting best-ever times for the 400-meter freestyle, 50-meter breaststroke and 50-meter backstroke.
  • Brussel smashed the previous 400-meter freestyle record by almost four minutes, with a time of 12 minutes 50 seconds, and completed the 50-meter backstroke in 1:20.42, breaking the existing mark by over five seconds.
  • Born in Holland in 1924, Brussel grew up during World War II, moved to Canada in 1959, and took up competitive swimming in her mid-sixties after retiring from her job as a seamstress.
  • Despite her age and achievements, Brussel maintains a humble attitude, stating that she doesn't think about the records and simply does the best she can.
  • Brussel, who turns 100 in July, credits her active lifestyle and positive attitude for her longevity and continues to inspire others with her story.
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