ALL YOU PEOPLE running the Cork City Marathon and Women’s Mini Marathon today – here’s your inspiration for the next big race.
A 92-year-old cancer survivor became the oldest woman to finish a marathon yesterday, after she finished the San Diego Rock’n'Roll Marathon in seven hours and 24 minutes.
Harriette Thompson of North Carolina started running in her 70s after some friends encouraged her to sponsor a marathon to raise money for cancer research.
This was her 16th marathon and, by far, the hardest. Thompson’s husband died in January after a lingering illness, and she also battled an infection in one of her legs.
It’s always harder, but this year has been a bad year for me. I couldn’t train very well because my husband was very ill and I had to be with him for some time and then when he died in January I had some treatments on my leg. I was just really thrilled that I could finish today.
A classically trained pianist who played three times at Carnegie Hall, Thompson says she mentally plays old piano pieces to help her get through the marathon.
She said she enjoys raising money for cancer research and figures the competition has helped keep her healthy.
I don’t think I’d be living today if I didn’t do this running. I’m helping them and they’re kind of helping me.
And with flawless pink lipstick throughout. That’s our kind of lady.
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