Ann Pearson is a remarkable senior citizen who goes about life at the pace of a 30-year-old. She describes herself as `fit, active and healthy' and looks much younger than her years.

When she turned 50 it was not a big, dreary deal for her. It was a bigger deal when she turned 40.

"Suddenly I realised I was not young anymore, but middle aged. I really felt about the same, looked the same, but intellectually I confronted the fact that I had lived 40 years! "After 40 I think most people slow down a little. I find my recovery time following vigorous physical activities takes a little longer,'' she said.

Ms Pearson is a talented tennis player and plays two or three times a week all around the Island. She was crowned a doubles champion in 1964 at the Bermuda Tennis Stadium and continues to play with a passion.

In fact, she plays singles on a regular basis with a very capable and competitive opponent, at least 20 years younger than she, who is also a past tennis champion.

"I started playing tennis when I was about 12 years old and I do love it! Tennis is a lifetime sport and if one never stops you probably can play until the end. That's my plan for sure.'' She feels she enjoys excellent health and great physical conditioning due to good genes. Both of her parents lived to the ripe old ages of 86 and 93.

"My parents were wonderful people who always displayed a healthy lifestyle.

They exercised, ate healthy and always took an interest in what was happening in the world.'' Ms Pearson says she has never had a weight problem and has never had a sweet tooth. She loves fruits and vegetables and drinks her favourite beverages, lots of water and Marks and Spencer's tea, which she prefers hot. She does not drink sodas.

When she was asked about tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle as you age she responded: "It's attitude to life that keeps you young and positive. Eating properly and keeping active, at least walking and swimming, is vital. Some people exercise too much and that is not wise. Do everything in moderation.'' Five years from now she sees herself exactly where she is today. She does not have any serious concerns about aging but advises to accept aging and make the most of it each day.

When she is not playing tennis and exercising she works part time in her brother's retail shop in St. George's. She loves working with her brother and her gregarious personality is a plus with customers.

"My best advice to seniors is to be enthusiastic in your relationships. My parents gave me excellent standards and taught me to give everything my best shot.

"You have to take chances in life. Most people are afraid to try as they age.

If you fall, pick yourself up and get back into the game of life,'' she proclaimed with a smile.

In her spare time she travels and enjoys an active social life with her numerous friends in Bermuda.

Ladies Doubles Champion in 1964, Ann Pearson, can still rally with the best of players.