Former model, 71, embraces extreme sports and inspires as wellness influencer
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
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- Virginia Elizalde, a former prominent model, has redefined her public image at 71 by embracing extreme sports and a wellness influencer lifestyle.
- She emphasizes that age is not a barrier to pursuing goals, driven by "desire, attitude, energy, and the decision not to set limits."
- Elizalde has pursued over 55 sports since her daughter's birth in 1983, inspired by her athletic parents and a lifelong passion for physical activity.
Virginia Elizalde, once a leading figure in national and international fashion, has forged a new path in her 70s, transforming into a sought-after wellness influencer and an enthusiast of extreme sports. Now 71, she maintains a striking physical presence and inspires over 61,000 followers with her dynamic approach to life.
Elizalde's philosophy centers on continuous growth and embracing challenges. "Age does not define what you can do. Your desire, your attitude, your energy, and your decision not to set limits define it," she stated in a recent Instagram post reflecting on her 71st birthday. She looks forward to setting new goals, learning, and cherishing her family and supportive relationships, choosing to "live intensely."
Cumplí 71. [...] Hoy miro hacia adelante y les cuento que voy a seguir moviéndome, poniéndome metas, aprendiendo, agradeciendo siempre, disfrutando mi familia y rodeándome de personas que suman. Siempre voy a seguir eligiendo vivir intensamente
Her adventurous spirit emerged formally after her daughter Catalina was born in 1983. While her modeling career demanded significant dedication, her upbringing by athletic parents who enjoyed tennis, golf, and rowing laid the groundwork for her active lifestyle. Elizalde recalled purchasing her first motorcycle at 18 with modeling earnings and a larger one at 20, noting it was unusual for women to ride powerful bikes then.
A pivotal moment came when a friend introduced her to windsurfing. "I didn't stop until I got it right. Then I started doing races and competing," she recounted. This led to an ongoing pursuit of high-demand disciplines. By her own count, Elizalde has engaged in over 55 sports, including bobsleigh, which she accomplished after a previous attempt in Switzerland was thwarted by poor weather.
La edad no define lo que podés hacer. Lo definen tus ganas, tu actitud, tu energía y tu decisión de no ponerte límites
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by La Nación in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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