Remembering Grete

One of the greatest marathoners of all-time, Grete Waitz, passed away last Tuesday, after a long battle with cancer. Waitz's cancer was first reported in 2005, as the legendary distance runner from Norway had been battling symptoms since then. Waitz kept the details about her illness private, as well as what kind of cancer she battled.

Waitz was best known for being the winner of 9 New York City marathons, between 1978 and 1988. However, her accolades on the track were just as deserving of praise. Waitz ran a 4:17 1500m at the age of 17, and would soon develop into one of the world's best middle-distance runners. At a time when women were not encouraged to actively pursue athletic endeavors, Waitz supported her athletic pursuits on her own, devoid of any athletic sponsorship early in her career.

Her versatility and range (from 1500 up to the marathon) are still tremendous. She dominated the 3k in Europe in the mid-80's, as she set numerous World Records and consistently lowered her personal best to an eventual 8:31.75. Her 1500 record of 4:00.55 is the Norwegian National Record to this day.  Futhermore, she fell just short of a 5k World Record of 15:08.80 in 1982. All said, Waitz set records at the 3k, 8k, 10k, 15k, 10 mile and marathon distances.  



Waitz happened upon the marathon accidentally. Her husband had influenced her to try one in New York City, as the trip would double as a vacation/honeymoon for the two. Waitz reluctantly and participated, only to become the new winner and World Record holder upon completion! Waitz would return the next year and chop nearly 5 minutes off of her time, setting a new World Record of 2:27:33 and subsequently becoming the first woman ever to break 2:30.

After her career, and up to her death, Waitz remained an inspiration and mentor for so many that knew her and followed her journey. From the creation of her own foundation supporting cancer research and treatment, to the speaking she did with inner city children, Waitz was a true champion and incredible leader.

A legend in her homeland (Waitz was knighted in Norway in 2008) and all over the world, Waitz will truly be missed, but always remembered. Rest in peace, Grete. You were one of the great ones and an inspiration to all of us.