Kathrine Switzer
Kathrine Switzer is best known as the first woman to run the Boston Marathon wearing an official bib, breaking barriers and inspiring millions of women around the world.
Runner
January 5, 1947
78
Kathrine Switzer is a renowned American marathon runner, author, and television commentator, who gained fame as the first woman to officially participate in the 1967 Boston Marathon with a bib. Despite facing resistance from race officials, she persisted and became a trailblazer for women’s equal access to sports. Switzer founded 261 Fearless, an organization that empowers women through running, and has achieved victories in events like the New York City Marathon. Additionally, she has authored several books on running and women’s sports, contributing to global social change and breaking down barriers for women in athletics.