Boston Marathon – Breaking The Gender Barrier
In 1967, Kathrine Switzer broke gender barriers by becoming the first woman to officially run in the Boston Marathon. Today, Switzer is back to run the Boston Marathon again, 50 years later.
Kathrine became an essential part of the women’s movement back in the 60s when she entered the marathon as K.V Switzer. This was in an era when the historic race was a male only event. It’s not difficult to see in these iconic photos, just how difficult it was for Switzer to be apart of this race. While running the marathon, race official Jock Semple is seen trying to rip her number off. Obviously, as history shows his attempt went unsuccessful as Kathrine did in fact finish the race in 4 hours and 20 minutes becoming the first woman to “officially” finish the race.
The reason it needs to be noted as “officially” is because the year prior another woman did in fact finish the entire race, but did so without officially entering.
Today, Switzer will again run the marathon donning the same 261 entry number that she wore in 1967. The number 261 has since become a symbol and rally cry for women rights globally. The number 261 bib will be retired after her run on Monday.
To put into perspective how pivotal Kathrine was, there are over 13,500 women running in the Boston Marathon this year.
On behalf of The Point After Show, Kathrine Switzer, we salute you.