Breaking Records at Ninety-One
On January 14, 2025, inside Padua’s Palaindoor track, Emma Maria Mazzenga crossed the finish line in 54.47 seconds, setting a new world record in the indoor 200 meters for the W90 category. The record had stood for thirteen years. She smiled, then told reporters, “Thank you, it’s a nice result. But last year I ran it in under 50 seconds.”
From University Sprinter to World Champion
Born on August 1, 1933, Mazzenga began running while studying at the University of Padua. Between 1956 and 1961, she competed in national championships, finishing fourth in Rome. After marrying in 1963, she stepped away from competition, returning in 1986 with her old teammates. Since then, she has trained with Atletica Insieme Verona, running twice weekly in Padua.
An Athlete Studied by Science
After setting multiple world records, Mazzenga took part in a study conducted by Italian researchers. Tests showed that her cardiorespiratory fitness matched that of a highly fit woman in her fifties. Muscle biopsies revealed an uncommon combination of large slow-twitch fibers for endurance and a high percentage of fast-twitch fibers for explosive power, both contributing to her performance.
Training, Routine, and Records
Mazzenga trains year-round following plans designed by coach Daniele Aloe. In winter, she practices indoors at Palaindoor; in summer, she runs at Colbacchini Stadium. Her schedule includes walking with her friend Rosa, a Masters athletics coordinator. Over her long career, she has earned five world records, nine European records, and twenty-eight Italian best performances.
A Lifelong Commitment to Movement
Even injuries could not keep her still. After a fall, she began walking again within a week, using a stationary bike to regain strength before returning to the track. Now widowed for over forty years, she continues competing in national and European Masters events. “The adrenaline that each training session gives me,” she said, “is the pure energy of my days.”
At 91, Emma Maria Mazzenga sprinted into history, finishing the 200 meters in 54.47 seconds and breaking the W90 world record.
Spectators in Padua watched as the Italian runner crossed the line smiling, still hungry for her next race…🧵👇 pic.twitter.com/mpFvEEabdE
— Fascinating True Stories (@FascinatingTrue) October 20, 2025