92-year-old becomes oldest woman to finish a marathon

A 92-year-old cancer survivor has become the oldest woman to finish a marathon after crossing the finishing line in America.

In this June 1, 2014 photo, Harriette Thompson, then 91, crosses the finish line in the 2014 Suja Rock n Roll Marathon in San Diego. (Paul Nestor/Competitor Group via AP) Source: Competitor Group

Harriette Thompson has beaten three bouts of oral cancer and the 92-year-old has now become the oldest woman to complete a full marathon in San Diego. 

The North Carolina woman took on the 42.2km San Diego Rock n’ Roll marathon for the 16th time at the weekend, accompanied by her son Brenny.

At 92 years and 65 days old, Thompson edged out former title holder Gladys Burrill, who set the record in the Honolulu Marathon in 2010, aged 92 years and 19 days.

Despite the win, Thompson told local media she was surprised by the media attention.

“I'm amazed that they, that they're interested,” Thompson said.

“I just feel I don't deserve this, but I'm enjoying it.”

Marathon organisers also congratulated the “rockstar” runner, who finished with a time of seven hours, 24 minutes and 36 seconds.

 

The post has since garnered more than 100 comments in support of Thompson, who was described as an inspiration for finishing the race, albeit around five hours behind the winner Igor Campos.