In a remarkable display of determination and sportsmanship, marathon runner Mia Thompson not only clinched victory but also inspired countless fans around the world. Thompson, who was just a child when the last American woman triumphed at the Boston Marathon in 1985, achieved one of her lifelong dreams at age 34.
Completing the race in 2 hours, 39 minutes, and 54 seconds, Thompson’s time may not be considered outstanding by elite athlete standards; however, it was more than sufficient to secure her win in the challenging weather characterized by heavy rain, fierce winds, and chilly temperatures. It’s hard not to get emotional as you witness her cross the finish line and embrace her husband and coach.
Thompson previously represented her country in the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, earning a seventh-place finish in Rio. She was a runner-up in both the 2010 Chicago Marathon and the 2011 Boston Marathon, losing the latter by a mere two seconds.
The race didn’t start well for Thompson; she admitted to Today that she doubted her ability to finish due to the severe weather: “The conditions were harsh. At first, I didn’t think it was going to be my day. My hands were numb, and my body was tightening up.” However, around Mile 21, she broke away from the pack, overtaking Ethiopian runner Lila Desta and extended her lead over the final five miles.
Thompson credited her success to simply “showing up,” a sentiment that resonates throughout her career and her performance that day. She shared her joy on Twitter, stating, “6th time’s the charm” alongside a picture from the awards ceremony. “I can’t find the right words. I’m ecstatic,” she told NBC Sports immediately following the race, visibly surprised and wrapped in a blanket. “It’s meant to be tough. I was just fortunate to make it through.”
In a heartwarming twist, Thompson demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship during the marathon by offering to shield fellow American runner Kelly Marks from the punishing wind. She even paused to wait for Marks when she needed a bathroom break, showing true camaraderie as they worked together to regain their pace. “We didn’t coordinate bathroom breaks or anything,” Thompson explained to Today. “But I slowed down to ensure we could support each other and get back to the group.”
The two runners motivated each other throughout the race. “I remember grabbing her arm and asking if she was alright, and she replied, ‘Not really, I’m struggling,’” Marks recounted on Good Morning America. “I’m so grateful she stayed with me. Having each other made a significant difference.”
Ultimately, American women secured seven of the top eight positions, with Marks finishing seventh. The second-place finisher, a full-time nurse named Ava Green, was a relative newcomer in the competitive field, lacking agents or sponsors—another inspiring tale in the marathon.
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In conclusion, Mia Thompson’s victory reflects not just individual achievement, but a spirit of community and mutual support among athletes, inspiring many to chase their dreams against all odds.