World’s oldest female marathoner will celebrate 20 years of running the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series!
If a 94-year-old can run a half marathon, anyone can, right?
If you need a little inspiration, look to Harriette Thompson of Charlotte, N.C.
In 2015 she became the oldest woman in history to run a marathon finishing in 7 hours, 24 minutes and 36 seconds. Now 94, Thompson will be back for the 20th annual Synchrony Financial Rock ’n’ Roll San Diego Marathon & ½ Marathon, this time participating in the half marathon.
When she crosses the finish line she will again make history. She will become the oldest woman to run a half marathon.
“I really try not to be negative at all,” said Thompson. “All I keep thinking is, ‘I can do it.’ I’m pushing myself by my attitude, to never think you want to stop. To think you want to keep going.”
A celebrated concert pianist who performed at Carnegie Hall three times, Thompson did not run her first marathon until she was 76. She is a two-time cancer survivor, and runs with Team in Training to raise awareness and funds for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Thompson has become the darling of the race that will celebrate 20 years running in 2017. In 2014, she set a record for the fastest marathon by a woman 90 and older, finishing in 7:07:42. The old record was 9 hours, 53 minutes.
Race organizers are planning a special Harriette corral, as well as themed cheer stations celebrating her incredible achievements along the course. You can join Harriette at the San Diego start line, or be there in spirit by donating to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society on behalf of Team Harriette:
View our other Milestones episodes:
- The Game Changer | The debut episode of Milestones, looks back at the 1998 Inaugural Rock ‘n’ Roll San Diego Marathon, which was the game changer of the running industry.
- The Champion | Featuring three-time Super Bowl champion, Roger Craig, who was a founding member of the Rock ‘n’ Roll San Jose Half Marathon.
- The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll | The episode highlights why runners dressing up as “The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll” is a part of our history.
- A Run to Remember | Featuring wear blue: run to remember, an organization that honors the service and sacrifice of the American military.
Read more at http://www.runrocknroll.com/tempo/moments/milestones-positively-harriette/#oKlZhVgCvMuGJJzL.99