Meet Natalie Grabow, a remarkable 80-year-old from Mountain Lakes, New Jersey, who recently made history by becoming the oldest woman ever to finish the Ironman Triathlon in Kona, Hawaii. On October 12, 2025, Natalie completed the triathlon that included a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and 26.2-mile marathon. All under 16 hours, 45 minutes, and 26 seconds. The Junior Age has all the details about it!
80-Year-Old Natalie Grabow Shatters Records at Ironman Triathlon – Oldest Woman Ever to Finish:
The Ironman World Championship Triathlon in Kona, Hawaii, isn’t just any race – it’s one of the toughest endurance challenges in the world. Natalie’s achievement not only set a new record but also shattered the misconception that age limits ambition. Her Triathlon included swimming, cycling, and running.
Natalie Grabow and her performance in swimming, cycling, and running
She began the race with a 2.4-mile swim in the warm, choppy waters of Kailua Bay. For most participants, that distance alone would be exhausting, but Natalie moved with steady strokes and calm focus, completing the swim while conserving energy for the long day ahead. Learning to swim at 59 made this moment even more powerful – proof that it’s never too late to master something new.
After the swim came the 112-mile bike ride through Kona’s intense lava fields, where strong winds and blazing heat test every athlete’s willpower. Natalie pedalled across the scenic yet brutal terrain, maintaining her rhythm mile after mile. Her mental strength shone brightest here, as temperatures soared and the wind pushed against her progress. She stayed determined, drawing strength from the thought of everyone cheering her on back home.
Finally came the 26.2-mile marathon – a full-length run after more than 100 miles of biking. This is where most athletes hit the wall, but Natalie kept going, one step at a time. As daylight turned to dusk, she pushed through fatigue with grit and grace, her eyes fixed on the finish line.
After 16 hours, 45 minutes, and 26 seconds of sheer endurance, Natalie Grabow crossed the line to roaring applause – officially becoming the oldest woman ever to finish the Ironman World Championship.
Also, read about India Shines Bright at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships.
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