The Reading Warehouse

Hundreds of powerful images by such renowned photographers as Helmut Newton and Susan Meiselas, along with personal reminiscences from many well-known marathoners, capture the endless hours of practice and the overwhelming rush of emotion at crossing the finish line. Examining the marathon through the lenses of history, philosophy, sociology, athletics, pop culture, fashion, and science, the book salutes the determination and courage of those who willingly push themselves to test their personal best.

Kathrine Switzer is Program Director for Avon Running Global Women's Circuit, an international program that provides millions of women with the opportunity to compete in running and walking events all over the world. She has run thirty-five marathons, won the 1974 New York City Marathon, and in 1975 was ranked sixth in the world and third in the United States. She is also a journalist and an Emmy Award-winning sports commentator for ABC, NBC, CBS and Turner Sports Broadcasting. She is married to Dr. Roger Robinson, professor, author, and noted age-group runner, and divides her time between New York City, Virginia, and New Zealand.