age a factor?

I'm a 52 year old RN with ICU experience, and also teach full time as a clinical instructor in an ADN program. I've always wanted to become an anesthetist, and am wondering if, after I finish my Master's in Education (next fall), would I be kidding myself about applying to CRNA schools?

In other words, are the application committees going to fall off their chairs laughing if a 53 or 54 year old applies? If I were to be accepted, what about working later on? Any thoughts about what it's "really like" out there? Do you think age would be a factor in whether or not I got hired? Maybe I'm reading too much into this age thing, but most people my age are thinking about buying motor homes, and I feel like I'm just getting started!

I'm in great shape physically and financially, and I have all the pre-requisites in place, with the exception of the GRE which I will take next year. Thanks a lot for your ideas, comments...