It’s Never Too Late to Find Purpose, Passion and Podiums

From competing in athletics to calisthenics, at 72 years young, Margaret “Margie” Blackwood is living proof that it’s never too late to overcome health challenges, chase a new purpose (or two), and win a few medals along the way.

Margie’s pathway to the podium hasn’t been easy. Back in 2005, Margie suffered a minor stroke and was diagnosed with high cholesterol. Determined to turn her health around, she started simply by walking during her lunch breaks.

“I worked in a medical centre at a mental health department. I was very busy and often skipped lunch breaks,” Margie explained. “I decided to look after myself more by taking lunchtime walks, then I ended up jogging, and also joined a gym to improve my health.”

“Running helped me heal,” expressed Margie.

By 2011, Margie was running regularly, entering fun runs and corporate challenges. She then set her eyes on a new challenge; the Australian Masters Games.

58 years old at the time, Margie signed up for her first 5,000m event at the 13^th Australian Masters Games in Adelaide in 2011. To her surprise, she walked away with a silver medal and a new passion for athletics.

“I met some lovely people at the Australian Masters Games and was introduced to a whole new world of athletics. I hadn’t competed like that since high school,” Margie reflected.

With a newfound love for athletics, Margie thrived on the challenge. She entered the next Australian Masters Games in Adelaide in 2015, this time adding the 8km cross country event to her repertoire, winning silver in both events.

Margie then returned to the podium once again at the 19^th Australian Masters Games in Adelaide in 2023, adding even more events and medals; gold in high jump and silver in 1,500m.

“When I was in high school, I was just ok in high jump. I was so surprised to be the last one left in my age group, winning gold. I absolutely loved achieving this!” Margie proudly shared.

But athletics isn’t Margie’s only passion. With a strong “I’m always up for a challenge” mindset, Margie rediscovered her childhood love for calisthenics, a discipline she hadn’t touched since she was 16.

“I was encouraged to join a masters calisthenics team in 2015. After my husband suddenly passed away, it became my community. It gave me purpose and connection again,” said Margie.

Since then, Margie has competed in multiple masters calisthenics competition in teams, duos and solos. This October, Margie steps onto the stage once again at the Australian Masters Games. This time, performing her own graceful solo, a special piece that will tell the love story of her and her husband.

“While I’ve performed this routine before, this will be the first time performing it at the Australian Masters Games. I’m looking forward to showing this routine, it’s my way of honouring our life together,” shared Margie.

Through all the medals and milestones, Margie’s outlook remains grounded and joyful. She walks 5km each morning with her Kelpie, Shadow, cross-trains with Pilates, weights, and bike rides. Above all, she has never underestimated the power of movement and community.

“I think I’d have severe arthritis if I didn’t move as often as I do. I’m not as flexible anymore, but I love doing what I can. Even when I’ve had injuries from athletics or calisthenics, I’ve learnt to step away, focus on recovery and return stronger,” Margie said.

Her advice to others thinking about giving masters sport a go? “It’s absolutely never too late!”

From high jump gold to heart-filled performances, Margie’s story is one of resilience, reinvention and finding strength in community. Whether you’re 30 or 70, she says the Games are a reminder that life doesn’t slow down unless you let it.

“I feel proud that I’m still active and mobile and enjoying life. Even though I’m on a pension and it can be a struggle sometimes, the Games give me something to train for, to look forward to, and to smile about. And that’s everything,” expressed Margie.

What are you waiting for? Set yourself a new challenge and register for one (or more!) sports at the 20^th Australian Masters Games in Canberra this October.