Sporting Witness - Women's Marathon Pioneer
Download Women's Marathon Pioneer
In 1967, the American athlete Kathrine Switzer, became the first woman to run the Boston Marathon.
At the time, athletics officials believed women were incapable of running more than a mile and a half.
After crossing the finishing line, Switzer was disqualified.
It was an experience that turned her into a campaigner for women's sport.
Picture: A Boston Marathon official attempts to stop Katherine Switzer, Credit: Associated Press
Published on Saturday, 3rd March 2012.
Available Podcasts from Sporting Witness
We are not the BBC, we only list available podcasts. To find out more about the programme including episodes available on BBC iPlayer, go to the Sporting Witness webpage.