Kathrine Switzer — SPARQNOW

At-a-Glance

Became the first woman to officially register for and run the Boston Marathon in 1967, an event that ignited the women's running revolution.
Owner/Operator of Marathon Woman since 1980.
Founder of 261 Fearless, a non-profit empowering women globally through running.
As Director of PR & Sports Marketing at Avon, helped secure the women's marathon as an official event in the 1984 Olympic Games.
Author of three books, including her memoir 'Marathon Woman'.
Emmy-award winning television commentator for events like the Olympics and major marathons.
Holds a Master's degree in Communications and Journalism from Syracuse University.

Biography

Kathrine Switzer is an American marathon runner, author, and television commentator, widely recognized for her pivotal role in women's sports. In 1967, she made history by becoming the first woman to officially register for and run the Boston Marathon, entering as "K.V.

Switzer." During the race, manager Jock Semple attempted to physically remove her, an incident that was photographed and reported internationally.