80-Year-Old Breaks Ironman Record

Natalie Grabow of New Jersey made history Saturday as the oldest woman to finish the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, completing the grueling course in 16 hours and 45 minutes at age 80.

It was her 10th time racing in Kona, and she topped the women’s 80-84 division after qualifying at Ironman Maryland earlier this year. Grabow picked up triathlons in her 60s and says her secret is racing with gratitude, not ego.

Her coach praised her toughness and drive, even studying men’s results in her age group to push herself harder. Race organizers called her “an icon of endurance,” demonstrating that determination doesn’t fade with age. Watch a video of Natalie.

Teacher’s Promise Comes Full Circle

In 2007, kindergartner Calyssa Longoria walked across a tiny stage with tears in her eyes as her teacher, Ms. Mikako Fisher Hill, promised to cheer her on again at high school graduation.

Life took Calyssa down a longer road—through early motherhood, college, and now graduate school—but she never forgot that promise.

When they finally reconnected through an old photo shared on TikTok, both were surprised to learn that their paths had mirrored each other: each had attended UC Davis, become a young mother, and balanced parenting with school.

Now a school administrator, Ms. Fisher called the reunion deeply meaningful. “If I’ve made a difference in even one child’s life,” she said, “that’s enough.”

☺️ Listen to an interview with Calyssa on this week’s episode of The Feel Good Flyover Podcast. 🎧

Meet Mal, the 180-Pound Gentle Giant Dog

More Shetland pony than sled dog, a 180-pound Malamute named Mal wasn’t quite the typical pup his owner had in mind.

Now five years old, he’s become a local celebrity in Bourne, England, known for his massive size and stubborn charm.

Originally bred for pulling heavy loads in the Arctic, Mal’s thick coat and sheer strength have made everyday tasks, like grooming or walking, a full-on production.

Still, owner Amy Sharp calls him her “gentle giant” and says life with Mal is worth every tumbleweed of fur.

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An Italian Greyhound in pajamas goes full tornado mode during a morning zoomie rampage.

Why do melons have weddings?

Because…

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“You’ve got to have strength in mind and body [and] be mindful that if you go for a lovely looking fluffy one, then you’ve got to be prepared to work with the coat because you will be living with it in your bed, in your food, on your clothes, and everywhere else.”

—  Joan Sheehan of The Alaskan Malamute Club of the U.K., on the demands of owning one of the Arctic’s fluffiest breeds.