Latte, Laughter & Links

The history of running is replete with individuals, who have gained international prominence, because of their exceptional athletic prowess and outstanding physical hard work. Here are some of the famous runners in the world, who have become pioneering figures and world-title holders.

Grete Waitz (1953 - )

A pioneer in women's marathoning, Waitz is considered as one of the world's best female marathoners of all time. Waitz is a nine-time winner of the New York City Marathon.

Michael Johnson (1967- )

A four-time Olympic gold medalist, Johnson has also won nine world championship titles. Johnson is famous for breaking his own world records and for his unconventional running style.

Mensen Ernst (1795-1843)

Ernst, an ultra marathon runner, is considered as one of the world's first professional athletes. Through running, he was able to travel around Europe and parts of Asia and North Africa.

Jesse Owens (1918-1980)

Owens is famous for winning four gold medals in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. With that outstanding feat, he was the first American to make a name in the world of Olympic running.

Arthur Lydiard (1917-2004)

Listed as one of the five influential figures in the world of running this century, Lydiard is a multi-awarded marathoner. Lydiard, who has coached the best middle-distance runners, is said to have invented the exercise, jogging.

This is just a short list of the famous runners in history. There are still others, who have created a name for themselves by setting world records, breaking new ones, or by completing running and marathon events. Through their accomplishments, they serve as an inspiration to every one, even to non-runners.