Marathon Official outraged to find a woman running in the 1967 Boston Marathon
I’m a lifelong Bostonian, so when I saw her name recently I immediately remembered the story. As late as 1967, women were not allowed to run in the world renowned Boston Marathon. It didn’t stop Kathrine Switzer.
Having registered under the name KV Switzer, her gender went unnoticed by officials at the start line, but a few miles in she was attacked by race manager Jock Semple. who tried to pull her off the course — creating an iconic image of women’s rights history. With the help of a bodyblock from her boyfriend, Switzer evaded the official and finished the race in four hours 20 minutes.
Since then, Katrine has championed women’s sports and today at age 74 continues to do so. Switzer works on the Health Advisory Board of the National Senior Games presented by Humana, an event that features athletic competitions for people ages 50 and over. She believes that seniors are capable athletes, and that it’s never too late to get in shape.
A recent USA today article featured Katrine and in it she offered 10 tips or secrets to staying well. They are simple and possible for everyone because they allow you to go at your own pace. It’s more about mindset, the idea that you keep fitness in the forefront of your mind, and stay with it. Follow this link for Katrine’s 10 tips.
The Famous 261
Thank you Kathrine Switzer
