Hello everyone! Gather around because I’ve got a story that’s sure to inspire you, no matter your age. Picture this: a 102-year-old woman, leaping out of an airplane at 7,000 feet! That’s right, folks, Manette Baillie of Suffolk, England, just set a new record as Britain’s oldest skydiver, proving once again that age is just a number.
On Sunday, August 25, Manette took to the skies in her first-ever parachute jump at Beccles Airfield, and it wasn’t just for thrills. This daring dive was all about raising money for some fantastic causes, including the East Anglian Air Ambulance, the Motor Neurone Disease Association, and her local Benhall Village Hall.
After the jump, she admitted to feeling a little “breathless” but that’s nothing compared to the sense of accomplishment she must have felt.
Now, you might think that someone in their hundreds would be content with knitting or watching TV, but not Manette! She’s been defying expectations for years. Speaking with BBC Radio 4, she shared a piece of advice that’s as uplifting as her skydive: “I just want other people who are getting towards 80 and 90 not to give up anything. Just keep going.” It’s that kind of spirit that keeps her young at heart and living life to the fullest.
Manette isn’t new to living on the edge. During World War II, she served in the Women’s Royal Naval Service (WRENS), and that adventurous spirit never left her.
For her 100th birthday, she celebrated by zooming around Silverstone in a Ferrari at over 130 miles per hour! Oh, and did I mention she’s still driving her car? Talk about unstoppable!
So, what’s her secret to such a long, vibrant life? Manette says it’s all about “community, friends, and being among people.” She’s a firm believer in staying connected, which might just be the key to her incredible energy.
But Manette isn’t just about seeking thrills for herself; she’s also deeply committed to her community. After her jump, she mentioned her love for the Benhall Village Hall, a place with deep roots as a gathering spot for ex-servicemen returning from the war.
She’s determined to help fix it up for future generations, knowing that community spaces like these are vital, especially for those who have served.
A celebration party is already in the works at her beloved Benhall & Sternfield Ex-Servicemen’s Village Social Club. It’s clear that Manette Baillie isn’t just living life—she’s making every moment count and inspiring others to do the same. So, here’s to Manette, a true testament to living boldly at any age!
