Fine filly Jean Seary has been recognised for her pavement-pounding efforts with a Heart Foundation 2020 Golden Shoe award.
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Technically over the age limit for a golden slipper - a prize reserved for two-year-old horses - Jean, 82, is passionate about the benefits of walking, and clocks about seven kilometres a day.
She joined the Nowra Walkie Talkies in November 2009 when she learned she was at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
After changing her diet and walking regularly, Jean's blood sugar readings returned to normal.
But Jean kept walking.
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She said the camaraderie and fitness kept her coming back to the walking group every Thursday morning.
"I like to walk every day, and the group keeps me motivated," she said.
"We go everywhere around Nowra, there are beautiful walks around."
Jean plans to keep walking until at least 105, and believes it's one of the best exercises for healthy ageing.
"My husband was a runner and he's worn his joints out," she said.
"Running wears you out but walking keeps you going."
Jean was nominated by the Walkie Talkie's "fearless leader" Mollie Robinson.
"Jean was here for our very first walk," she said.
"She is such a fantastic example of someone who has courage and commitment - she's kept going when other people would have found it too hard."
Mollie encouraged anyone keen to improve their health and share in some socially-distance company to join the group.
"We go every Thursday, if it's raining we still walk," she said.
"We average about ten each Thursday and have a cup of tea afterwards which is always very convivial, we learn a lot of things about each other and we care for each other."
It costs nothing to join - if you are interested, go to the Heart Foundation website and register, or call Mollie on 0409 125 365.
