The streets of Savannah, Ga., came alive on Saturday as over 7,000 runners from all 50 states and 12 countries took on the Every Woman’s Marathon, a race designed to highlight and support women in running. Runners enjoyed a flat, USATF-certified, and Boston-qualifying course ideal for everything from personal bests to memorable first-marathon experiences.
Designed for women by women, the event aimed to provide a safe, inclusive space for women runners of all abilities. Nearly half of this year’s participants were first-time marathoners, drawn to the race for its supportive atmosphere and practical resources, such as training plans and nutrition guides. Beyond that, the inclusion of nursing pods and wheelchair-accessible lanes reflected the organizers’ commitment to meeting diverse needs.
Breaking barriers in women’s running
Legendary figures in the running community helped shape the event, including Kathrine Switzer, the first woman to officially run the Boston Marathon; Des Linden, a Boston Marathon champion and Olympian Deena Kastor. Their input helped the race cater to runners of varying abilities while addressing barriers often faced by women in the sport.
Out of the 7,000 participants in the Every Woman’s Marathon, approximately 140 were men, making up about two per cent of the field. This aligns with trends in marathon demographics, as women now represent 58 per cent of all runners, according to the 2024 Running USA Global Runner Survey. While marathons have historically been male-dominated, participation rates have been steadily balancing, with many U.S. races now nearing an equal split between male and female runners.
Join me on the race course at #SSU for the final salute to a magnificent day and event.
Congrats to the thousands of runners who passed through our campus during the Every Woman’s Marathon. It was great to see you!
You energized us with your determination to push… pic.twitter.com/G4XEWtPSLQ
— Dr. David Marshall, APR (@deandavem) November 17, 2024
Collaboration and community support
The impact extended beyond the race itself, with proceeds supporting charities like Girls on the Run, 261 Fearless and Black Girls Run!. The event also hosted a wellness expo, featuring yoga sessions, cooking classes and panel discussions with prominent female athletes.
As the celebrations at the 2024 Every Woman’s Marathon concluded, organizers hinted at plans for a 2025 edition. With its sold-out debut, this race appears to have solidified its place in the running world.
