Legendary rock icon Sir Rod Stewart, now 80 years old, is chasing an unexpected and ambitious goal: breaking the 100-meter sprint world record in his age category. Known for his powerhouse voice and timeless hits, Stewart is proving that his competitive spirit extends well beyond the stage.

Born January 10, 1945, Stewart has remained remarkably dedicated to fitness throughout his career. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a Grammy winner, and knighted for his contributions to music, the British singer-songwriter is now focused on a very different kind of record.

Training and Ambition

Training daily on a private sprint track at his sprawling estate—which also boasts an indoor pool, a large gym, and a golf course—Stewart has shaved his 100-meter sprint time down to 19 seconds. He credits his improvement to mastering techniques like the “push off” and a rigorous regimen that includes underwater workouts. He has been working with the same trainer for nearly four decades, emphasizing a long-term commitment to his physical health.

In interviews with AARP Magazine and Radio Times, Stewart revealed his target of 17 seconds, which he believes would be a world record for an 80-year-old sprinter. His motivation stems not only from staying in peak shape but also from his deep-rooted competitive nature—a trait evident during his days as a keen football player and in his recovery from health issues including thyroid and prostate cancer.

The Record to Beat

While Stewart’s determination is admirable, the current world record for the men’s 80-84 age group stands significantly faster. American athlete Kenton Brown set the mark at 14.21 seconds during the Nevada Senior Games in Las Vegas on October 5, 2024. Brown’s record was run under challenging wind conditions (-0.7 m/s), making his achievement all the more impressive.

This means Stewart faces a steep climb to reach or surpass the existing benchmark, with his best time currently 19 seconds and a target of 17 seconds still well above the official record.

Awareness and Public Perception

Stewart appears aware of the challenge ahead. In an interview with OutKick, he acknowledged, “I can do it in 19 seconds, and the record for an 80-year-old is 14 seconds. I’ll never get it to that. But I’m trying.” This frank admission suggests he may not have had access to the latest record information when discussing his goals publicly.

The discrepancy between his stated target and the actual world record may stem from outdated data or a different interpretation of masters athletics records. Regardless, Stewart’s effort to compete at such a level at 80 years old is inspiring many fans and fitness enthusiasts alike.

A New Chapter for a Rock Legend

Rod Stewart’s foray into sprinting world records underscores his lifelong drive to push boundaries. While breaking the official 80-plus sprint record remains a monumental task, his journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, healthy living, and an unyielding competitive spirit.

As Stewart trains toward his goal, he reminds the world that age can be just a number—and sometimes, the greatest challenges are the ones we set for ourselves.