The Most Famous Marathon Runner, Ranked

Choose the marathon runner you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 24, 2024 09:55
Determining the most famous marathon runner can be a valuable resource for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. It highlights outstanding achievements and provides a historical context that can enrich one's understanding of the sport. By compiling a ranked list based on public opinion, it offers a dynamic reflection of who is making an impact in the running world today. This list brings together the collective insights of the running community and fans around the globe. Voting on your favorite marathon runners contributes to this ongoing conversation, ensuring the rankings truly represent the voices of those who admire and follow the sport. It’s an engaging way for you to see how your preferences align with others and to support the athletes who inspire you.

Who Is the Most Famous Marathon Runner?

  1. 1
    36
    votes

    Eliud Kipchoge

    Kenyan long-distance runner who is considered one of the greatest marathon runners of all time. He holds the world record for the men's marathon.
    • World Record: 2:01:39
    • Olympic Gold Medals: 2 (2016, 2020)
  2. 2
    29
    votes

    Haile Gebrselassie

    Retired Ethiopian long-distance runner who won two Olympic gold medals and four World Championship titles in the 10,000 meters. He has set numerous world records.
    • Olympic Gold Medals: 2
    • World Records Held: 27
  3. 3
    22
    votes

    Wilson Kipsang

    Kenyan long-distance runner who has won major marathons including the London Marathon, New York Marathon, and Berlin Marathon. He has also held the marathon world record.
    • Former World Record Holder: 2:03:23
    • Major Marathon Wins: Multiple
  4. 4
    21
    votes

    Paula Radcliffe

    Former English long-distance runner who is a three-time winner of the London Marathon, three-time New York Marathon champion, and 2002 Chicago Marathon winner. She held the women's world record in the marathon for 16 years.
    • Women's World Record: 2:15:25
    • Marathon Wins: Multiple
  5. 5
    12
    votes

    Tegla Loroupe

    Kenyan long-distance runner who was the first African woman to win the New York City Marathon. She has held multiple world records for distance running.
    • First African Woman to Win NYC Marathon: Yes
    • World Records Held: Multiple
  6. 6
    5
    votes

    Catherine Ndereba

    Kenyan marathon runner, known as "Catherine the Great". She has won the Boston Marathon four times and the Chicago Marathon twice, and she has two Olympic silver medals in the marathon.
    • Boston Marathon Wins: 4
    • Olympic Silver Medals: 2
  7. 7
    0
    votes

    Geoffrey Mutai

    Kenyan long-distance runner who has won several major marathons, including Boston, Berlin, and New York. Known for one of the fastest marathon times ever recorded.
    • Boston Marathon Course Record: 2:03:02
    • Major Marathon Wins: Multiple
  8. 8
    0
    votes

    Joan Benoit Samuelson

    Retired American marathon runner who won the gold medal in the women's marathon at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, the first year the event was held.
    • 1984 Olympic Gold Medalist: Yes
    • Boston Marathon Wins: 2
  9. 9
    0
    votes

    Mary Keitany

    Kenyan long-distance runner who specializes in marathon running. She has won the London Marathon three times and the New York City Marathon four times.
    • New York City Marathon Wins: 4
    • London Marathon Wins: 3
  10. 10
    0
    votes

    Kenenisa Bekele

    Ethiopian long-distance runner and the current world record and Olympic record holder in both the 5,000 meters and 10,000 meters events.
    • World Records: Multiple in 5,000m and 10,000m
    • Olympic Gold Medals: 3

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous marathon runner. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Runner is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1672 views
  • 125 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Runner once every 24 hours. The rank of each Runner is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Famous Marathon Runner

Eliud Kipchoge
Rank #1 for the most famous marathon runner: Eliud Kipchoge (Source)
Marathon runners train hard. They wake up early, often before dawn. They run for miles, rain or shine. Their dedication is clear. They push their bodies to the limit. They know pain but also know triumph.

The history of marathon running dates back to ancient times. The modern marathon, however, began in the late 19th century. It became part of the Olympics in 1896. Since then, it has grown in popularity. Today, marathons are held all over the world. They attract thousands of runners and even more spectators.

Training for a marathon is intense. Runners follow strict schedules. They build up their endurance over months. They run long distances on weekends. They do speed work during the week. They also focus on their diet. Eating the right foods helps fuel their runs. Hydration is key as well. They drink plenty of water and sports drinks.

Mental strength is just as important as physical strength. Marathon runners must stay focused. They set goals and work hard to achieve them. They face many challenges along the way. Injuries can occur. Weather conditions can be tough. Yet, they keep going. They have a strong will to succeed.

The marathon itself is a grueling event. It covers a distance of 26.2 miles. Runners start strong but must pace themselves. The first half can feel easy. The second half is much harder. Around mile 20, many hit "the wall." This is when the body feels like it can't go on. But the best runners push through. They find a second wind. They keep moving forward.

Crossing the finish line is a moment of pure joy. It's a reward for months of hard work. Friends and family often cheer them on. The sense of accomplishment is immense. For some, it's a personal victory. For others, it's a step towards a bigger goal.

Marathon runners inspire many. They show what dedication can achieve. They prove that with hard work, anything is possible. They remind us to set big goals. They teach us to never give up.

Marathons also have a positive impact on communities. They bring people together. They often raise money for charities. They promote health and fitness. They encourage others to start running. Many who watch a marathon decide to run one themselves.

In conclusion, marathon runners are remarkable. Their dedication, strength, and perseverance are admirable. They train hard, face challenges, and enjoy the rewards of their efforts. They inspire others and bring communities together. Their impact is far-reaching and lasting.

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