Sister Madonna Buder: The Iron Nun

Why is Sister Madonna Buder known as the “Iron Nun”?

Because the 89-year-old— from Spokane, Washington — has competed in almost 400 triathlons. And she’s still going strong.

Since taking up running in 1978, when Sister Madonna was 47, she’s competed in 390 triathlons. And that includes 45 Ironmans — one of the most grueling triathlons in the world. An ironman triathlon includes 2.4 miles of swimming, 112 miles of cycling, and 26.2 miles of running!

By the time she was 52, she was running up to 70 miles a week, but it was getting a little boring. That’s when her adventure with triathlons started. 

And just look where it’s taken her! In 2012, she became the oldest person ever to complete an Ironman… at 82! And a few years after that, she starred in a Nike commercial.

I love sharing stories like these with you. They’re proof that you’re never too old to try new things or to pursue your dreams. Just look at Sister Madonna — still going for it! In fact, she plans to do another triathlon when she turns 90 next year.