I remember in1967, Kathrine Switzer, was the first woman to run the Boston Marathon. The race organizer, Jock Semple, went after her when he saw Switzer in the race and began yelling, “Get the hell out of my race and give me those numbers.” Switzer’s boyfriend and several other male runners created a human shield surrounding Kathrine during the entire marathon.
The photographs that were taken of the incident made headlines around the world. Kathrine went on to win the NYC Marathon with a record time of 3:07:29 and became an advocate for women's rights.
Over four decades later, this incident continues to capture the public’s attention. There were people who told her it couldn’t be done, warning her of the negative consequences, but Kathrine knew in her heart there were many races to be won!
I admire those who refuse to squander their innate abilities on statistics or the opinions of others; rather, they are determined to chart a course that is paralleled to none. By Linda Sumner Urza, One fine day.
