Top 10 Female Marathon Runners of All-Time

By Jayson Panganiban May 01, 2024 20:28

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Marathon running has been a sport that demands exceptional endurance, consistency, and tenacity. Over the years, several female athletes have left an indelible mark on the history of marathon running, achieving remarkable feats and contributing significantly to the sport.

Here, we present a comprehensive list of the top 10 greatest female marathon runners of all time, showcasing their extraordinary achievements and contributions to the marathon world.

1. Catherine Ndereba, Kenya

Catherine Ndereba, a Kenyan long-distance runner, has cemented her place in marathon history with exceptional accomplishments. She is a two-time world champion in the marathon and has triumphed at prestigious events such as the Chicago Marathon and the Boston Marathon.

Notably, Ndereba holds the distinction of being the second-fastest woman ever and was the first woman to achieve a marathon time under 2:20.

2. Grete Waitz, Norway

Grete Waitz, a Norwegian long-distance runner, is celebrated for her remarkable achievements in the marathon distance.

She won the New York City Marathon an astounding nine times, showcasing her unparalleled dominance in the event. Additionally, Waitz set four world records, including being the first woman to finish under 2 hours and 30 minutes.

3. Paula Radcliffe, England

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Paula Radcliffe, a British long-distance runner, is considered one of the greatest female marathon runners of all time. Her career is highlighted by her world record-breaking run at the 2003 London Marathon, where she set an astonishing time of 2 hours, 15 minutes, and 25 seconds.

Radcliffe also boasts three of the fastest times in history and two world records, with her best time being four minutes faster than anyone else's.

4. Joan Benoit Samuelson, U.S.

Joan Benoit Samuelson, an American marathon runner, achieved iconic status in the sport with her historic victory at the first-ever women's Olympic marathon in 1984.

Samuelson's groundbreaking performance at the 1983 Boston Marathon, where she set a world record, further solidified her reputation as a trailblazer in women's marathon running.

5. Rosa Mota, Portugal

Rosa Mota of Portugal is a distinguished figure in the marathon world, boasting Olympic gold and bronze medals, as well as world and European titles.

She has secured victories in prestigious marathons such as Boston and Chicago, establishing herself as a formidable force in the sport.

6. Lidia Simon, Romania

Lidia Simon, a Romanian long-distance runner, clinched an Olympic silver medal and multiple gold and bronze medals at world championships. Her impressive record includes three-time victories at the Osaka Women's Marathon, solidifying her status as a premier female marathoner.

7. Katrin Dorre, Germany

Katrin Dorre, a German marathon runner, earned Olympic and world bronze medals and secured wins at major marathons such as Osaka, London, and Tokyo. Notably, she achieved victories in big-city marathons over an 18-year span.

8. Ingrid Kristiansen, Norway

Ingrid Kristiansen of Norway set a world record in 1985 that stood for 13 years and secured victories in marathons such as London, Boston, Chicago, and New York. Her remarkable accomplishments include four wins in London and two wins in Boston, further consolidating her legacy as a formidable female marathoner.

9. Valentina Yegorova, Russia

Valentina Yegorova of Russia clinched Olympic gold and silver medals in an illustrious career, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in the marathon world.

10. Naoko Takahashi, Japan

Naoko Takahashi, a Japanese marathon runner, achieved Olympic and Asian Games titles, becoming the first woman to finish a marathon in under 2 hours and 20 minutes.

These extraordinary female athletes have not only achieved remarkable successes in the marathon world but have also inspired countless individuals with their exceptional performances and unwavering dedication to the sport.