79 Years Young and 65 Medals Later
From Veteran Marina Perez beginning her roots in Trinidad to age not defining her limits as a competitor for the National Veterans Golden Age Games, she is what many call “unstoppable”.
Her story spans continents, challenges, and victories, offering a beacon of hope and determination for all who face adversity.
At 79 years young, Marina combines willpower and a zest for life as she embraces encounters which would challenge most.
It all started at the age of 33, when she competed in the New York City Marathon herself, completing the run in just over five hours.
This set the tone for a transformative moment that fueled her confidence and commitment to pushing herself to the limit.
This portion of her life’s journey began with a bold decision to join the U.S. Army at the vibrant age of 35, and despite some obstacles and overcoming initial setbacks one faces when coming from abroad, she enlisted and never looked back.
Marina’s military career spanned 25 years, culminating in her retirement as a Sergeant First Class (SFC). Her service included deployments to the Gulf War and Bosnia, where she served with distinction and received the prestigious Bronze Star Medal.
Reflecting on her service, she says, “The military opened my mind to how others live and survive. It made me grateful and taught me resilience.”
After retiring from service at the age 60, Marina transitioned to working at the West Palm Beach Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center. It was here that she found a new community of women Veterans who introduced her to the National Veterans Golden Age Games.
Marina did not just compete in the Games; she took home some weight hanging from her neck of three gold medals in her first competition.
Over the course of 12 years, she has set her name for the record with an incredible 65 medals in cycling, bowling, javelin, long jump, and many other track and field events.
Staying active has been crucial for Marina’s health and vitality. She says, “The games keep me young. At my age, it’s easy to get lazy, but the camaraderie and competition motivates me to keep going. Running and staying active has been my therapy through life’s toughest moments.”
The Golden Age Games are more than just a competition for Marina; they’re a celebration of life and a testament to the enduring spirit of Veterans. She emphasizes, “The VA created this opportunity to keep us in shape and connected, and it’s made a huge difference in my life.”
Looking back on her incredible journey, from emigrating to the United States, running a marathon, serving in two war zones, retiring from the military, and to becoming a Golden Age Games champion, Marina Perez’s life is a testament to living life fully and embracing every opportunity.
Her journey proves that age is no barrier to greatness, and life’s golden years can truly shine.
Marina’s advice to fellow Veterans is simple yet profound: “Stay active. Exercise is the best medicine for the body and mind. It’s never too late to start, and it’s always worth it.”
The National Veterans Golden Age Games is open to VA enrolled U.S. military Veterans who are 55 years old or beyond by December 31, 2025. To compete, visit: National Veterans Golden Age Games - National Veterans Sports Programs (va.gov).