At 93 years old, Antonio Rao continues to rewrite the history of sport. The legendary runner in fact crossed the finish line of the Circus Maximus during the 2026 Rome Marathon in 7 hours 9 minutes and 20 seconds, confirming himself as one of the most incredible icons of Italian and world running.
A tireless record holder
Born in 1933, Calabrian by birth and Roman by adoption, Rao has already entered the annals in 2023, when he finished the same marathon in 6h14’44”, establishing a historic record in the Master 90 category. Since then he has never stopped running, participating every year with the same tireless spirit: 6h54’23” in 2024 and 6h44’16” in 2025, demonstrating that age is just a number when passion guides the steps.
Rao’s career began over 80 years ago, when he left Calabria for Rome. Professionally a shoe maker for divas, Antonio has transformed running into a lifestyle. Between 2024 and 2025 he completed 14 races, always with the same determination, including the Miguel Race, commemorated on the armband worn during the Roman marathon.
A test of heart and determination
At the end of the race, Rao commented with simplicity and pride:
It was hard but I’m here again, at the finish line of this extraordinary race. I have to thank the group of pacers who encouraged me and accompanied me step by step, I’m very happy.
Antonio Rao doesn’t run just for himself: his story is an invitation to live fully, to resist difficulties and to transform passion into vital energy. At 93 years old, every step becomes a lesson, every goal a symbol of strength and determination. As he himself recalls:
To feel free, the important thing is to run. Because when I run, I chase bad thoughts away. The important thing is to move and feel good about yourself. Like I do.
And if this is the secret to reaching 93 years old in top shape, we just have to imitate it.
View this post on Instagram
You might also be interested in:
