PUBLISHED 09/22/2006
The Avenger: Paula Radcliffe
By John Brant
 |
| © Patrick Voight |
It's as if Paula Radcliffe needed the nightmare of the 2004 Olympics to offset and define the dream year that followed. Within 100 days of failing to finish the marathon and the 10,000 meters in Athens, Great Britain's superstar redeemed herself with a dramatic 2:23:10 victory at the ING New York City Marathon. In April, her 2:17:42 win at the Flora London Marathon was the fastest-ever time for a women-only elite field. Then Radcliffe crowned her year of vindication with a 2:20:57 triumph in the marathon at the World Championships in Helsinki in August. At year's end, Radcliffe, 31, was taking measured aim at the 2008 Olympic Marathon in Beijing, while at the same time speaking out about ways to promote youth running and fitness. "I have always felt strongly about introducing the benefits of sports to children and others," she says. "Running has brought me such a great deal as a person, and I want others to share this feeling."
August 8-24, America's top track & field athletes seek Olympic glory in Beijing. Our special section has all the running events covered. 
| Writer Guidelines
