BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — Baton Rouge resident and Senior Olympian Julia "Hurricane" Hawkins has passed away at the age of 108, according to the National Senior Games Association. Hawkins first entered and earned medals at the National Senior Games in her 80s, but she achieved national fame when she took up competitive running when she was 100 years old, according to the NSGA. In 2017, Hawkins set a world record in the 100-meter at the National Senior Games with a time of 39:62. According to the NSGA, in 2021, she became the first woman and American in the world to set a 105-plus age group track record with a time of 1:02:95 in the 100-meter. Former Southern University football head coach Pete Richardson selected for SWAC Hall of Fame NSGA President and CEO Sue Hlavacek released the following statement. "Julia became the face of the Senior Games and inspired everyone she met with her joy and positive attitude toward life. Julia's indomitable spirit and record-setting runs sent shockwaves of admiration around the world and proved that age is no limit to what you can accomplish. Her example motivated countless people to become active for their health, and we are forever grateful to have her as part of the National Senior Games community." NSGA President and CEO Sue Hlavacek Read the following statement from Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser. "I was saddened to hear about the passing of my friend Julia 'Hurricane' Hawkins at the remarkable age of 108. Julia was a true inspiration, picking up running after her 100th birthday and setting world records in her age group. Her spirit and determination to stay active and engage with life touched so many. We will keep her and her family in our prayers during this difficult time. Thank you Julia, for showing us all that age is just a number!" Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser via Facebook Latest News Florida mailman stabs lawncare worker over parking: deputies West Feliciana Parish sees big economic boost from visitor spending in 2023 TV host Adam Richman says production crew robbed while filming in North London 'The Opioid Crisis' highlights addiction, overdose deaths in Louisiana Disney World raises prices on annual passes