You know the iconic photo, but what else do you know about the moment that led to global change for female athletes?
Kathrine Switzer is a living icon of women’s empowerment in athletics and beyond. In 1967, she defied an all-male tradition and became the first woman to officially enter and complete the Boston Marathon.
Since then, Kathrine has:
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Run 42 marathons, winning the NYC Marathon in 1974 and ranking among the top marathoners in the world.
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Advocated globally for women’s sports participation, helping secure the women’s marathon in the Olympic Games (1984).
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Founded 261 Fearless, a nonprofit empowering women through running worldwide.
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Built a career as an award-winning broadcaster, author and role model for generations.
We spoke with Kathrine ahead of her keynote speech at the Women’s Fund for the Fox Valley Region Luncheon on September 10th.
Learn more about the Women’s Fund Luncheon HERE.




