Another historic day for Boston Marathon

Lokedi’s course record 2:17:22 happened to come on the 50th anniversary of another monumental moment in women’s race history: a trailblazing run by Marilyn Bevans.

It was on 21 April 1975, that Bevans, a native of Maryland, ran 2:55:52 to place fourth at the 79th Boston Marathon. Bevans’ perseverance and determination made history, as she became the first U.S.-born African American woman to break three hours in the marathon. She’d go on to finish second at Boston two years later in 1977, running 2:51:12.

Bevans’ mark on running and Boston history was celebrated on this Marathon Monday (21 April) as she was recognized at the finish line and took part in a special event held by the Black Unicorn Marathoners, a group that celebrates and connects BIPOC runners associated with the Boston Marathon, from qualifiers and charity runners to invited entrants and alumni.

On race day, a team of four athletes – Alisa Harvey, Michelle Wheeler, Erica Stanley-Dottin, and Tay Artis – ran in Marilyn’s honor celebrating five decades since her pioneering feat. Wheeler placed 12th in the wheelchair division and wore her Black Unicorn Marathoners uniform and medal with pride, noting on Instagram that “It was also an incredible honor to spend time with trailblazers, [1975 wheelchair champion] Bob Hall and Marilyn Bevans. To Ms. Bevans, thank you for allowing me represent you today.”

Back in 2013 Bevans was inducted into the National Black Marathoners Association Hall of Fame, and she continues to be an inspirational force showcasing the power of running for athletes of all backgrounds. At Boston she mentioned focusing on an upcoming 10K, where she’s aiming to have fun and channel some of her speed from 50 years ago.