24 Greatest Female Runners That Will Inspire You to Start Running

Female athletes have made a huge impact in the sports world—especially famous female runners who have shown the extraordinary things women can achieve. Their accomplishments go beyond breaking records. These runners show strength, resilience, and the importance of gender equality in sports.

Representation matters, and seeing women succeed in running empowers others to believe in their own potential. Famous female track runners have set the stage for future generations, proving that women can achieve amazing things in sports.

These inspiring athletes have motivated countless people to start running, whether for fun or competition. Their stories of hard work and success encourage people of all ages to set and reach their own running goals. By showing their dedication and achievements, these runners have helped create a more inclusive and supportive running community.

Their legacy continues to inspire new runners to lace up their shoes and hit the track—empowering them to push their limits and discover their strengths.

1. Allyson Felix

An icon in Olympic track, Felix embodies resilience and excellence. With 11 Olympic medals, she's the most decorated female track athlete in history. She has also achieved great success at the World Championships by winning a total of 18 medals.

After unexpected pregnancy complications, she has become a powerful advocate for maternal rights. Felix's grace on and off the track positions her as a role model who elevates women's athletics worldwide.

Olympic Medals: 11 (7 Gold, 3 Silver, 1 Bronze)

Game Participations: 5

First Olympic Games: Athens 2004

Year of Birth: 1985

Team: United States of America

Events: 4 x 100 meter Relay, 4 x 400 meter Relay, 400 meters, 100 meters, 200 meters

2. Jackie Joyner-Kersee

Joyner-Kersee stands among the most famous female runners in history, achieving six Olympic medals, including three golds in the heptathlon and long jump. Raised in East St. Louis, her journey from adversity to athletic success is deeply inspiring.

Beyond her achievements on the track, she passionately advocates for youth education and community improvement—ensuring a lasting legacy both in sports and societal impact.

Olympic Medals: 6 (3 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze)

Game Participations: 4

First Olympic Games: Los Angeles 1984

Year of Birth: 1962

Team: United States of America

Events: Heptathlon, Long Jump

3. Evelyn Ashford

An electrifying Olympic track legend, Ashford shattered the 11-second barrier in the 100m after becoming a mother—proving that nothing can slow her down. Rebounding from three season-halting injuries, her fierce determination and passion have ignited the dreams of countless athletes.

Ashford's blazing speed and unyielding spirit continue to break barriers and champion gender equality in sports.

Olympic Medals: 5 (4 Gold, 1 Silver)

Game Participations: 4

First Olympic Games: Montreal 1976

Year of Birth: 1957

Team: United States of America

Events: 100 meters, 4 x 100 meter Relay

4. Florence Griffith Joyner

Florence Griffith Joyner, famously known as "FloJo," dazzled the world with her speed and style by winning three gold medals at the 1988 Olympics. As one of the most famous female track runners, she was known for her vibrant outfits and long, decorated nails.

Setting world records in the 100m and 200m that still stand today, her groundbreaking performances and unique flair live on despite her untimely death at age 38.

Olympic Medals: 5 (3 Gold, 2 Silver)

Game Participations: 2

First Olympic Games: Los Angeles 1984

Year of Birth: 1959

Team: United States of America

Events: 100 meters, 200 meters, 4 x 100 meter Relay, 4 x 400 meter Relay

5. Fanny Blankers-Koen

Famously known as the "Flying Housewife," Blankers-Koen made history at the 1948 London Olympics by winning gold in the 100m, 200m, 80m hurdles, and 4x100m relay. She could have won more medals if not for the rule limiting women to three individual events in track and field.

Although she preferred track, she was the reigning world record holder in the high jump and long jump at the time. As a mother of two, she defied age and gender expectations by showing that women could excel in athletics even after starting a family.

Olympic Medals: 4 (4 Gold)

Game Participations: 3

First Olympic Games: Berlin 1936

Year of Birth: 1918

Team: Netherlands

Events: 100 meters, 200 meters, 4 x 100 meter Relay, 80 meter Hurdles, Long Jump, High Jump

6. Valerie Ann Brisco-Hooks

Valerie Ann Brisco-Hooks rose to Olympic fame after a tragic event spurred her into running in honor of her brother who was shot on a Los Angeles track. Initially, her running was modest, but after marrying NFL player Alvin Hooks and becoming a mother, she intensified her training.

Enduring rigorous 12-hour training sessions each day, she dominated at the U.S. Olympic Trials—qualifying in both the 200m and 400m events. Her journey from tragedy to triumph exemplifies resilience and determination among Olympic famous female runners.

Olympic Medals: 4 (3 Gold, 1 Silver)

Game Participations: 2

First Olympic Games: Los Angeles 1984

Year of Birth: 1960

Team: United States of America

Events: 4 x 400 meter Relay, 200 meters, 400 meters

7. Wyomia Tyus

Wyomia Tyus made history by becoming the first athlete ever to achieve consecutive Olympic gold medals in the 100m sprint. Her remarkable achievements not only broke records but they challenged racial and gender barriers.

Using her platform, Tyus passionately advocated for civil rights and women's equality. Her lasting impact on both athletics and society continues to inspire generations of athletes worldwide.

Olympic Medals: 4 (3 Gold, 1 Silver)

Game Participations: 2

First Olympic Games: Tokyo 1964

Year of Birth: 1945

Team: United States of America

Events: 100 meters, 200 meters, 4 x 100 meter Relay

8. Wilma Rudolph

Celebrated as one of the most famous female Olympic track runners, Rudolph soared beyond paralysis from childhood polio to capture three gold medals and break world records at the 1960 Rome Olympics.

As a child, many doctors told her she would never walk again, but she clung to the belief that she would. Her dazzling speed and resilience inspires millions worldwide as she symbolizes what it means to overcome adversity.

Olympic Medals: 4 (3 Gold, 1 Bronze)

Game Participations: 2

First Olympic Games: Melbourne 1956

Year of Birth: 1940

Team: United States of America

Events: 4 x 100 meter Relay, 100 meters, 200 meters

9. Yolanda Gail Devers

Gail Devers faced daunting health challenges and injuries to achieve remarkable success in sprinting and hurdles. Despite battling Graves' disease, her courage and determination helped her take home three gold medals. She is known for saying, "In my race, there's 10 hurdles, but in life, there is always a hurdle."

Devers is recognized not only for her athleticism but also for her victory dances and advocacy for health awareness—all of which have solidified her position as a track legend.

Olympic Medals: 3 (3 Gold)

Game Participations: 5

First Olympic Games: Seoul 1988

Year of Birth: 1966

Team: United States of America

Events: 100 meters, 100 meter Hurdles, 4 x 100 meter Relay

10. Kerron Stewart

Recognized as one of the most famous female runners in the Olympics from Jamaica, Stewart won silver medals in the 100m and 200m events at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. 

Her impressive speed and smooth running style marked her transition from netball to track—demonstrating her versatility and commitment to athletic excellence. Since retiring from competitive athletics, Stewart has stayed active in sports promotion and mentoring young athletes.

Olympic Medals: 3 (2 Silver, 1 Bronze)

Game Participations: 2

First Olympic Games: Beijing 2008

Year of Birth: 1984

Team: Jamaica

Events: 100 meters, 200 meters, 4 x 100 meter Relay

11. Catherine Ndereba

Catherine Ndereba, nicknamed "Catherine the Great," is a celebrated Kenyan marathon runner who earned two Olympic silver medals. Known for her endurance and consistency, she held the women's marathon world record for several years—finishing at 2:18:47.

Ndereba's victories in prestigious marathons like Boston and Chicago, coupled with her charitable efforts supporting education in Kenya, highlight her as both an outstanding athlete and a humanitarian.

Olympic Medals: 2 (2 Silver)

Game Participations: 2

First Olympic Games: Athens 2004

Year of Birth: 1972

Team: Kenya

Events: Marathon

12. Joan Benoit

Joan Benoit, one of the most famous female marathon runners, faced a severe knee injury just over two weeks before the 1984 U.S. Olympic Trials. Against all odds, she underwent surgery, qualified for the Games, and made history by winning gold at the first women's Olympic marathon.

Her record-setting performance of 2:24:52 marked a breakthrough in the sport's history. Benoit, an avid goal-setter, said, "[I] push against the obstacles with all my strength and ... give up only when I am fairly and honestly defeated."

Olympic Medals: 1 (1 Gold)

Game Participations: 1

First Olympic Games: Los Angeles 1984

Year of Birth: 1957

Team: United States of America

Events: Marathon

13. Shalane Flanagan

Shalane Flanagan stands out among famous female long distance runners by making history in 2017 as the first American woman in 40 years to win the New York City Marathon. She has represented the US in multiple Olympic Games and holds several American records in distance running events. 

Beyond her achievements on the track, Flanagan joined the University of Oregon as an assistant coach to help strengthen the distance program. She brings years of coaching experience from her tenure at the Nike Bowerman Track Club.

Olympic Medals: 1 (1 Silver)

Game Participations: 4

First Olympic Games: Athens 2004

Year of Birth: 1981

Team: United States of America

Events: 5,000 meters, 10,000 meters, Marathon

14. Deena Kastor

In 2001, Deena Kastor debuted at the New York City Marathon and finished as the top American woman with a time of 2:26:58—an American debut record. She continued to excel by winning the 2004 New York Mini 10K, setting an American record at the 2005 USA 8K Championships, and achieving numerous top finishes and records.

Kastor is a three-time Olympian and earned a bronze medal in the 2004 Olympic marathon. In 2019, she released her book "Let Your Mind Run," a New York Times Bestseller and Memoir of the Year.

Olympic Medals: 1 (1 Bronze)

Game Participations: 3

First Olympic Games: Sydney 2000

Year of Birth: 1973

Team: United States of America

Events: 10,000 meters, Marathon

15. Lynn Jennings

Lynn Jennings started running competitively in high school and quickly gained recognition. A standout at Princeton, she later became a 10,000m bronze medalist at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. She also won three consecutive World Cross Country Championships from 1990-1992. 

Jennings set American records in both indoor and outdoor events and, in 2006, was inducted into the USA Track & Field Hall of Fame. As one of the most famous female cross country runners, her legacy endures and inspires future generations.

Olympic Medals: 1 (1 Bronze)

Game Participations: 3

First Olympic Games: Seoul 1988

Year of Birth: 1960

Team: United States of America

Events: 5,000 meters, 10,000 meters

16. Jo Pavey

Jo Pavey is a five-time Olympian and the only British runner to compete in five consecutive Games. She became the oldest female European champion by winning the 10,000m at the 2014 European Championships at age 40—just ten months after having her second child. 

Coached by her husband, she also won silver at the 2012 European Championships and two Commonwealth medals. Pavey continues to balance running with family life, saying "I'm still running purely because I love to run."

Olympic Medals: 0

Game Participations: 5

First Olympic Games: Sydney 2000

Year of Birth: 1973

Team: Great Britain

Events: 1,500 meters, 5,000 meters, 10,000 meters

17. Paula Radcliffe

Paula Radcliffe, a marathon legend and one of the most famous female distance runners, held the women's marathon world record for 16 years and won the London and New York City Marathons multiple times. Battling asthma, she became a Commonwealth champion, a three-time European Cross Country champion, and a three-time World Half Marathon champion.

Named Sports Personality of the Year in 2002 by the BBC, she’s an inspirational speaker and a fierce advocate for a clean sport. Radcliffe also supports various charities and health initiatives, including asthma and cancer research.

Olympic Medals: 0

Game Participations: 4

First Olympic Games: Atlanta 1996

Year of Birth: 1973

Team: Great Britain

Events: 5,000 meters, 10,000 meters, Marathon

18. Tegla Loroupe

Facing opposition from her family who believed running was unladylike, Tegla Loroupe persevered and pursued it professionally. Often competing barefoot in early races to symbolize her journey, she made history as the first African woman to win the New York City Marathon in 1994. 

Loroupe held the marathon world record from 1998 to 2001, represented Kenya in three Olympics, and founded the Tegla Loroupe Peace Foundation to promote global peace, women's rights, and education.

Olympic Medals: 0

Game Participations: 3

First Olympic Games: Barcelona 1992

Year of Birth: 1973

Team: Kenya

Events: 10,000 meters, Marathon

19. Mary Decker Slaney

A dominant figure in track and field, Mary Decker Slaney set an impressive 36 national records and was the first woman to break 4:20 for the mile. Her career included four Olympic appearances and four gold medals at the World Championships.

Slaney holds American records in the 1,500 meters, mile, and 3,000 meters while also earning multiple Athlete of the Year honors and induction into the National Track and Field Hall of Fame in 2003.

Olympic Medals: 0

Game Participations: 3

First Olympic Games: Los Angeles 1984

Year of Birth: 1958

Team: United States of America

Events: 1,500 meters, 3,000 meters, 5,000 meters

20. Kara Goucher

As a runner for the University of Colorado, Kara Goucher made waves in 2000 by winning NCAA titles in the 3000m, 5000m, and cross country. She also won the Honda Sports Award in 2001 and had the fastest women's time for the half marathon at the Great North Run in 2007. 

Competing in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, Goucher achieved top-10 marathon finishes and 8th place in the 5000m. She's had a successful career as one of the most famous female runners and now works as a track and field analyst for NBC Sports.

Olympic Medals: 0

Game Participations: 2

First Olympic Games: Beijing 2008

Year of Birth: 1978

Team: United States of America

Events: 5,000 meters, 10,000 meters, Marathon

21. Sarah Attar

Sarah Attar made history as one of the first two female athletes to represent Saudi Arabia at the Olympics as she competed in the 800m at the 2012 London Games. Attar, a Saudi-American, also competed in the 2016 Rio Olympics marathon.

Attar's participation in the Olympics was groundbreaking and inspired many young women in Saudi Arabia to pursue their athletic dreams despite societal barriers. Her other passion is outdoor and adventure sports photography where she works to capture the beauty of landscapes and the stories of the people within them.

Olympic Medals: 0

Game Participations: 2

First Olympic Games: London 2012

Year of Birth: 1992

Team: Saudi Arabia

Events: 800 meters, Marathon

22. Amy Cragg

Amy Cragg, a two-time Olympian and former Bowerman Track Club member, made history with a bronze medal at the 2017 World Championships. This was the first medal won by an American woman in the marathon since 1983. She won the 2016 U.S. Olympic Trials marathon and placed third in the 2018 Tokyo Marathon. 

Cragg does everything it takes to level up, including switching coaches, training strategies, and even shoes. As she prepares for a race, she stops her ruminating thoughts two weeks before the competition. "Control what you can,” she says, “and let the rest roll off of your back."

Olympic Medals: 0

Game Participations: 2

First Olympic Games: London 2012

Year of Birth: 1984

Team: United States of America

Events: 10,000 meters, Marathon

23. Sara Hall

Sara Hall is known for her impressive career and strong performance in long-distance running. Hall has represented the US in the Olympics and finished second at the 2020 London Marathon. In 2022, she placed second and broke the American record at the Houston Half Marathon—beating the previous record by ten seconds. 

Hall has stayed busy with parenting, training, and running in the Boston Marathon in 2023 and 2024 (on her 41st birthday). Though she didn't qualify for a spot on the 2024 Olympic Team, we certainly haven't seen the last of her.

Olympic Medals: 0

Game Participations: 1

First Olympic Games: Tokyo 2020

Year of Birth: 1983

Team: United States of America

Events: Marathon

24. Mary Jepkosgei Keitany

Mary Jepkosgei Keitany is a Kenyan long-distance runner known for her outstanding achievements in marathon running. Keitany has dominated the sport with numerous victories, including the London Marathon and New York City Marathon. She holds the world record for the women-only marathon with an impressive time of 2:17:01. 

Keitany's speed and endurance have earned her a reputation as one of the most famous track female runners of her generation. She is involved with the Shoe4Africa Foundation—a nonprofit committed to improving the lives of children in Africa. The Mary Keitany Shoe4Africa Secondary School was opened in her hometown and named after her.

Olympic Medals: 0

Game Participations: 1

First Olympic Games: London 2012

Year of Birth: 1982

Team: Kenya

Events: Marathon

The Impact of Running on Women’s Health

Running greatly impacts women’s health—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Physically, running is a great workout for the heart and lungs. Running helps with weight management and strengthens muscles and bones, along with reducing the risk of osteoporosis. It also boosts metabolism, can help regulate the menstrual cycle, and provides relief from conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome.

Running is also amazing for the brain. It triggers the release of endorphins, often called the "runner’s high," which can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. This mood boost can lead to better stress management and improved mental clarity. Running also builds discipline and focus—qualities that help in many other areas of life—making people more productive and mentally strong.

Emotionally, running can feel like a moving meditation, as it offers time for reflection and personal growth. Running provides a sense of accomplishment and boosts self-esteem. Setting and achieving running goals, whether it’s a 5K or a marathon, empowers women as they work toward achievement. The running community also offers social support and friendship, which are important for emotional health.

Top female runners show incredible qualities like determination, resilience, and perseverance. Athletes like Joan Benoit—the first woman to win the Olympic marathon—and modern famous female runners like Shalane Flanagan and Allyson Felix, demonstrate amazing dedication and mental toughness. Their achievements inspire other women to pursue their goals and break barriers in sports and other areas of life.

Running empowers women by allowing them to challenge their limits and discover their strengths. It provides a platform for women to demonstrate their abilities, and defy stereotypes and societal expectations. As women reach their running goals, they gain confidence that spills over into other parts of their lives—leading them to healthier, more balanced, and fulfilling lives.

So, if you’re thinking about starting to run, now is the perfect time to lace up your best running shoes and hit the track. Whether you’re aiming to improve your health, clear your mind, or boost your confidence, running is a powerful tool that can transform your life. Every step you take is a step toward a stronger, happier, and more empowered you.

Remember, it’s not about how fast or how far you run, but about taking that first step and building from there. Embrace the journey, celebrate your progress, and join the community of women who are discovering their potential through running. You’ve got this!

Sourcing

• Evelyn Ashford. Wikipedia
• Florence Griffith Joyner. United States Olympic & Paralympic Museum (July 2019)
• Fanny Blankers-Koen. Britannica (May 2024)
• Valerie Ann Brisco-Hooks. International Olympic Committee
• Wilma Rudolph. International Olympic Committee
• Gail Devers. United States Olympic & Paralympic Museum (July 2019)
• Ndereba and Okayo - the marathon greats who blazed a trail for Kenyan women. World Athletics (July 2024)
• Joan Benoit. United States Olympic & Paralympic Museum (July 2019)
• Shalane Flanagan. University of Oregon
• Deena Kastor. New York Road Runners
• Deena Kastor. Mammoth Track Club
• Lynn A. Jennings. International Olympic Committee
• Jo Pavey. Joe Pavey
• Paula Radcliffe. New York Road Runners
• Tegla Loroupe: the barefoot runner. Sayaspora (October 2016)
• May Slaney (Decker). USATF
• Kara Goucher. NBC Sports (April 2024)
• Kara Goucher. Wikipedia
• Sara Attar. Wikipedia
• Amy Cragg: The Art of the Changeup. Zappos
• Amy Cragg. Wikipedia
• Sara Hall. Wikipedia
• Mary Jepkosgei Keitany. Wikipedia
• 13 Benefits of Running That'll Convince You To Lace Up Your Sneakers, Stat. Women's Health (August 2020)

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