According to Linda Stanley Wilson, swimmers are most likely to hit their peak in their mid-to-late 20s. Why? Well, as the president of the White Rock Wave Swim Club explains, that’s when they’ve got the extra energy to keep those arms churning in the water. Plus, college athletes have the luxury of focusing on training without worrying about making ends meet, thanks to scholarships. All of that adds up to swimmers reaching their best form. But someone close to Linda didn’t exactly have that setup.

Instead, this swimmer kicked off her professional career at the age of 68! Now, at 100, she’s got a locker stuffed with medals and a handful of world records. And if you’re thinking that’s the end of her story, think again—she’s eyeing an even bigger milestone!

Think age slows you down? A Dutch-Canadian swimmer begs to differ!

In July this year, Betty Brussel celebrated her 100th birthday, surrounded by four generations of family cheering her on. But Betty’s got a wish of her own—she wants her family to clap as she dives into the pool for her four events at the Huntsman World Senior Games in Utah this weekend. Not that competing in multiple events on the same day is anything new for her! Back in January, the centenarian swimmer shattered not one, not two, but three world records—all in a single day!

At first, she claimed the 400 m free world record in the 100- to 104-year-old age class. Later, she came back to uproot the world records in 50m backstroke and 50m breaststroke events. All came in the same age group at a weekend swim meet in the British Columbia city of Saanich. Now, Betty Brussel is on her route again to upset the age-old concept of numbers in swimming. As a result, one would wonder what motivates her. 

After serving the swimming sport for almost 32 years, she does not search for motivation. But in the interview with Global News, the Dutch-Canadian swimmer shared a few thoughts. She eventually said, “I am competitive, but if I don’t win and I have a good time, I’m happy. You know, I don’t have to win, but it’s nice to win.”

As president of the White Rock Wave Swim Club, Linda Stanley Wilson has probably heard it all. But when it comes to her centenarian club member, she’s always been Betty Brussel’s biggest cheerleader. Five years ago, Betty joined Linda’s club, and, well, the rest is history. This weekend, though, the stakes are higher—Betty will be tackling two longer events: the 800m freestyle and the 1500m. Will that make things more challenging for the Westminster native?

Betty Brussel’s ultimate competition is herself!

In her conversation, Betty Brussel has clarified that she does not chase numbers in the pool. “I just swim. I just do the best I can. And if it’s a record fine. If I win, I’m happy to win. But if I have a good time, I’m happier,” she steadfastly mentioned after her historical feat in January this year. Yet, whenever she registers for a swimming event, she earns a better chance to nab the world record in that event. Any special reason? 

According to one of Betty Brussel’s swimming buddies, she’s got her sights set on smashing every world record in the 100-104 age category. But here’s the thing: her chances of winning get even better due to the limited number of competitors in her events. Betty’s enthusiasm for the sport is unmatched, and she’s always striving to outdo herself with each race. However, in many events, she often finds herself competing solo, especially in the distance races, where she might be the only one in her age group.

The good news? If she crosses the finish line, she automatically sets a world record. While no one knows the full lineup of competitors at the Huntsman World Senior Games, one thing’s for sure: Betty has a probable shot at claiming at least one world record this weekend!