The First American Woman to Win NYC Marathon since 1977

stanhopeofficial (57)in #news • 7 years ago (edited)

Shalane Flanagan dethroned Mary Keitany on Sunday and became the first American woman to win the New York City Marathon since 1977, potentially ending her decorated career with her first major marathon victory.

Keitany had won three straight New York marathons, but Flanagan pulled away from the Kenyan great with about three miles to go. Flanagan finished in 2 hours, 26 minutes, 53 seconds, about a minute faster than Keitany.

The American cried and yelled as she approached the finish line all alone.

“It’s indescribable,” the 36-year-old Flanagan said. “It’s a moment I’m trying to soak up and savor.”

On the podium, Flanagan put her hands over face and began to cry again when she was announced the winner. She turned to hug Keitany before accepting her medal.

“This is the moment I’ve dreamed off since I was a little girl,” Flanagan said.

Flanagan had said she may retire if she won New York. She didn’t immediately make an announcement regarding her future.