San Diego

94-Year-Old Marathon Runner to Set Record in San Diego

Harriette Thompson, a two-time cancer survivor, will become the oldest woman to run a half-marathon on June 4 at the San Diego Rock 'n' Roll Marathon

Harriette Thompson, 94, is about to set yet another record Sunday at the Rock 'N' Roll Marathon in San Diego, as the oldest woman to run a half-marathon.

"I never thought I would still be here!" exclaimed Thompson Friday.

Thompson broke the world record in 2015 as the oldest woman to complete a full marathon.

Thompson, a two-time cancer survivor, said she runs to raise money for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. Through the years, she has raised $100,000 for the organization. She has raised $15,000 in 2017.

She said her secret to a healthy life at her age is, of course, exercise on a regular basis and a balanced diet. Though, she said it is hard for her to resist sugar.

"I might have to reward myself after the race with an ice cream cone," she said with a smile.

Thompson was joined by her son at the San Diego convention center Friday, where she gave a speech thanking participants for giving back to cancer research.

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