Breaking Barriers in Sports

In 1967, Kathrine Switzer made history as the first female-registered runner to participate in the Boston Marathon, using the byline K. V. Switzer from her journalism studies at Syracuse University. Although not the first woman to finish the race, her registration and subsequent run defied the norms of an all-male competition.

Switzer’s attempt to participate sparked controversy when a race official physically attempted to remove her from the course, an incident that drew significant media attention. This act of defiance marked a pivotal moment for women’s athletics, contributing to the official inclusion of women in the Boston Marathon just five years later, in 1972.

A Legacy of Empowerment

Now a globally recognized advocate for women’s rights in sports, Switzer will return to SUNY Cortland for a speaking event on November 4, 2025, at 6 p.m. in Old Main Brown Auditorium. Her previous engagement at Cortland was in 2012, making this a long-awaited return for both the university and her audience.

This presentation is free and open to the public, providing attendees with an opportunity to hear firsthand about Switzer’s influential journey in athletics and beyond.

Achievements and Recognition

• Winner of the New York City Marathon in 1974
• Named Runner’s World magazine’s female runner of the decade (1967-1977)
• Inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 2011
• Won an Emmy Award in 1997 for coverage of the Los Angeles Marathon

Throughout her career, Switzer has not only excelled in competitive running but has also ventured into broadcasting, marketing, and public speaking. She has appeared on numerous television programs, including “Oprah,” “The Today Show,” and “Good Morning America.”

Promoting Women’s Running Worldwide

Switzer co-founded the nonprofit organization 261 Fearless, focusing on empowering women through running and education. Additionally, she established the Avon International Running Circuit, which successfully introduced women’s running events to over a million participants globally. This initiative played a significant role in the promotion of women’s sports and the eventual inclusion of the women’s marathon in the Olympics starting in 1984.

Enduring Spirit

At 78 years old, Switzer continues to inspire women and runners alike. In 2017, she celebrated the 50th anniversary of her historic Boston Marathon run by completing the race again at the age of 70.

Her talk at SUNY Cortland is sponsored by the university’s Sport Management Club. For more details, please contact Mark Dodds, professor of sport management.