Dr. Hilliard Lackey is a prominent 83-year-old octogenarian marathon runner, retired military officer, and longtime professor at Jackson State University. Known as a “marathon man” for his late-life athletic transition, he began running in his mid-70s and has since become a state champion in his age category.

He has been appointed Grand Marshal for the Mississippi Blues Marathon race on Saturday, February 21, 2026, where he will lead the wave of participants and compete in the half-marathon division.

Recent Athletic Achievements

• Mississippi State Champion: In March 2025, at age 82, he completed a full 26.2-mile marathon in 7 hours, 5 minutes, and 39 seconds, earning the title of Overall Senior Grand Master.
• Race Namesake: The annual Quest Fitness Center 5K Walk & Run was renamed in honor of him and his wife, Dr. Lillian Troupe Lackey. 

Health and Lifestyle

• Philosophy: He attributes his longevity to “diet and exercise” and famously claims to have been free of prescribed medication for over 50 years.
• Advocacy: Lackey uses his platform to promote walking and running as viable health options for Mississippi residents, particularly for maturing adults.
• Professional Legacy: Beyond athletics, he served as a professor of Urban Higher Education and an administrator at Jackson State University for over 60 years.

Let’s cheer him on!