Her name is Bobby Gibb. In 1966, she wanted to run the Boston Marathon, but she was refused. She was told, “Women cannot run marathons. You are not physically suited for marathons. We cannot take responsibility if something bad happens.”
About 60 years ago, on the day of the race, Bobby hid in the bushes and waited for the race to start. After many runners had passed, she began to run. She was wearing her brother’s shorts, men’s shoes, a swimsuit, and a sweater. She started to sweat, but she kept the sweater on. She was afraid that a runner would see her, stop her, or even arrest her.
However, the other runners soon realized she was a woman. Bobby worried they might push her off the path or call the police. But instead, they kindly offered to help her run without any problems.
Relieved, Bobby took off his sweater. When people saw a woman running, instead of getting angry, they cheered. Men applauded, and women shed tears of joy. By the time she crossed the finish line, everyone knew who she was. The female students at the university where the race was held were waiting to cheer her on.
The Governor of Massachusetts also shook her hand at the finish line. The first woman to complete a marathon has finished and won a medal!
Bobby Gibb remains a hero in women’s sports.