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79-Year-Old Pioneer Still Runs 40 Miles Weekly
20 Apr
Summary
- Switzer runs 30-40 miles weekly at age 79.
- She founded the nonprofit 261 Fearless to empower women.
- Her work led to women's inclusion in the Olympics.
Kathrine Switzer, a trailblazer in women's running, continues to embody the sport's power at 79, maintaining a weekly mileage of 30 to 40 miles. Despite health setbacks, she emphasizes exercise as a necessity, urging others to simply start. Switzer's journey began in 1967 as the first woman to officially run the Boston Marathon, an event that only permitted female competitors in 1972.
Recognizing ongoing opportunities for women in running were limited, Switzer dedicated herself to creating them. In 1977, she collaborated with Avon, helping to develop international running programs that significantly boosted women's health awareness and participation. This initiative was pivotal in the eventual inclusion of the women's marathon in the 1984 Olympic Games.
Her enduring commitment led to the 2015 launch of 261 Fearless, a global nonprofit. This organization fosters a worldwide community, using running as a tool for women to realize their physical, mental, and social strength. This year, Avon is sponsoring 261 Fearless runners at the 2026 Boston Marathon, continuing their shared mission.
