Here's a Role Model

Jeannie Longo, at 47 years of age, has won her 50th National title in the time trial. Fan-freaking-tastic!


From Cyclingnews.com:

50th National title for Longo

To all those who had stopped expecting to see her win, 47 year-old Jeannie Longo showed that she is still the best French time triallist as she took her 50th National title in Chantonnay on Thursday. In the women's race against the clock, 'La' Longo surprised everyone including herself by taking seven seconds off Edwige Pitel in the 24.7 km-course, while Maryline Salvetat finished third.

In the morning before the race however, Longo wasn't too sure about herself. "I would like to win, but when I look at the start list, I tell myself 'oh là là' - I'm not even sure about finishing in the top five," the French all-record-beating championesse told L'Equipe. "I haven't raced against the others this year at all."

This winter, Longo lost her mother, who passed away in February. "That was very hard for me," she added. "I gave everything to her; I spent the whole winter by her side. After [her death], I got up in the morning not knowing what to do during the whole day."

And two days later she went on to earn her 51st national title in the road race. WoW!

Oh sheesh. I was thinking about her while I was watching Deadly Nedly race around Nevada City. I hadn't heard anything about her lately and just assumed she finally retired. Silly me.

as long as she can keep winning...why retire? :)

She's like the Ned Overend of womens races. Isn't he over 50 and still competitive? So there's hope for me yet? Never mind....

That's impressive! Just think of the age difference between her and some of those that she beat. Role model is right!