Local couple prove age is just a number in competitive athletics

While many their age are settling into retirement, Tim and Joy Saunders-Mullins are still actively competing in masters athletics.

At 70 and 71 years old respectively, the Letchworth couple continue to participate in national competitions, proving that athletic achievement knows no age limit.

Tim specialises in throwing events like hammer, discus and shot put while Joy competes in sprinting, javelin and shot put.

The pair train four times a week at the North Herts Leisure Centre, which is managed by Everyone Active in partnership with North Herts Council, where they've been members since the 1980s.

Their comprehensive training regime includes use of the gym, pool and sauna facilities. Tim focuses on power and strength training to support his throwing events, while Joy's programme combines speed, endurance, strength and power work for her track and field disciplines.

"I started running when I was 15 in school, and worked my way right up - juniors, seniors, and now masters. I was the 400m world champion record holder at the 2003 World Masters Athletics Championships in Puerto Rico," Joy said.

Joy and Tim compete through the British Masters Athletic Federation (BMAF), which organises age-group competitions starting from 35 years old in five-year increments.

"There's no age limit - we have people in our athletics that are over 85. There really is no limit to keeping active," Tim explains. He emphasises that the benefits extend beyond physical fitness, noting, "It calms me down, helps my anxiety. I feel more relaxed and can cope with things better."

Joy encourages others to start wherever they are. She says: "If you're completely new to fitness, there's plenty you can do from home. Even while sitting down, you can exercise your arms and legs. Then if you want to go further, you can visit the gym to meet like-minded people, or join a club if you're feeling adventurous."

The Saunders-Mullins couple are being featured as part of Everyone Active's "Age is Just a Number" campaign, which aims to challenge aging stereotypes and encourage seniors to embrace new activities.

Chris Williams, Everyone Active's area contract manager, said: "Tim and Joy are fantastic examples of how age shouldn't be a barrier to staying active and competitive. Having been members here since the 1980s, they're proof that maintaining an active lifestyle can be a lifelong journey. Their continued participation in masters athletics shows others that it's never too late to pursue their sporting passions."

Cllr Mick Debenham, North Herts Council’s Executive Member for Leisure, said: "Tim and Joy’s commitment to staying fit and competing in athletics well into their 70s is both impressive and inspiring. They’re living proof that being active isn’t just about keeping fit—it’s about boosting your mood, staying connected, and embracing life to the fullest. We’re proud to have facilities and programmes in North Herts that support residents of all ages to keep active."

Tim is currently recovering from a shoulder injury but Joy has her sights on the indoor and outdoor championships in 2025.

For more information about the "Age is Just a Number" campaign, visit: www.everyoneactive.com/promotion/ageisjustanumber/