A world record-holding sportswoman has marked her 100th birthday by reflecting on the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle and personal freedom well into her second century.
Jean Farguson, a resident of Guildford in Surrey, reached the centenary milestone on Saturday, 12 September 2026. While many reaching their 100th year might look to slow down, Mrs Farguson continues to drive her 14-year-old Honda Jazz and remains an active figure in the competitive sporting world.
The former geography teacher gained international recognition in June 2023 when she was officially confirmed as the Guinness World Record holder for the oldest competitive female croquet player. She achieved the title at the age of 98 years and 264 days while competing for the Guildford & Godalming Croquet Club during a South East Federation golf croquet league match.
A commitment to independence
Central to Mrs Farguson’s longevity is her insistence on autonomy. She remains a regular sight behind the wheel of her car, citing her ability to travel as a vital component of her daily life. “At 100, my independence is very important to me,” she said, noting that her car allows her to maintain her social and sporting commitments without relying on others.
Her background as a teacher has also shaped her outlook, maintaining a sharp interest in the world around her and the mechanics of the sport she took up later in life. She has been a member of the Guildford & Godalming Croquet Club for several years, where she is known for her competitive spirit and strategic play.
Despite reaching her 100th birthday, she continues to play the game, which is often praised for its combination of physical movement and mental calculation.
Staying active in later life
Mrs Farguson’s achievement highlights a growing trend of “active ageing” across the UK. For those inspired by her example to take up the sport, Croquet England (formerly the Croquet Association) provides a national directory of clubs catering to all age groups and skill levels.
For older motorists who share Mrs Farguson’s desire to remain on the road safely, various organisations offer support. While there is no upper age limit for driving in the UK, drivers must renew their licence every three years once they reach 70. Many local authorities and charities, such as IAM RoadSmart and RoSPA, offer voluntary “experienced driver” assessments. These are designed to provide a confidence boost and ensure that senior drivers can maintain their independence for as long as it is safe to do so.
Mrs Farguson celebrated her birthday with friends and family, with her Guinness World Record status remaining a point of pride for both her and her fellow club members in Surrey.
