When you empower women to run, extraordinary things happen. Running is more than just exercise—it’s freedom, confidence, and community. And nowhere was that more evident than at the 261 Fearless Women’s Running Conference, where I had the privilege not only to listen to but also run alongside marathon legend Kathrine Switzer.
If you’d told me at the start of this year that I’d be lacing up my running shoes with the woman who changed the history of women’s running, I’d have thought you were crazy. Yet yesterday, that dream became reality.
The Power of Kathrine Switzer’s Story
Most people know Kathrine for that iconic moment at the 1967 Boston Marathon, when she was the first woman to run the race with an official bib. But hearing her speak at the conference was a reminder that her story goes far beyond that one cold morning in Boston.
What started as a simple desire to run with her coach turned into a movement that reshaped sport for women worldwide. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations—not only to run, but to stand up for equality and inclusivity in every aspect of life.
Women’s Running: Beyond Finish Lines
The theme of the Take The Baton conference was clear: women’s running is about much more than chasing personal bests. It’s about empowerment, friendship, and possibility.
Hearing from trailblazers like ultrarunner Sophie Power, and community leaders Mel Bound (founder of This Woman Runs) and Tasha Thompson (founder of Black Girls Do Run UK), I was reminded how deeply running is tied to confidence.
Tasha shared the story of Marcia, a runner in her community who—after building confidence through running—decided to learn how to swim at the age of 50. Today, Marcia competes in triathlons! Her journey echoes what I’ve seen myself as a LiRF (Leader in Running Fitness) at my own club. Whether it’s finishing a Couch to 5K programme or completing a first 10K, running has the power to open doors women never imagined possible.
Community Over Competition
One of the standout speakers was Lisa Jackson, who proudly calls herself a “back-of-the-pack” runner. She’s finished more than 25 marathons last—and loved every step. Through her bestselling book Running Made Easy, Lisa introduced the idea of run/walk intervals long before Couch to 5K became mainstream.
Her message struck a chord: running doesn’t have to be about speed. For many women, the true joy of running comes from community and connection, not competition. Friendships forged through running clubs and local groups are often more meaningful than medals or PBs. And that’s exactly what keeps women coming back, week after week.
Building Confidence with the Right Support
As women, having the right support—whether that’s a coach, a community, or even the right women’s running accessories—makes all the difference. From sports bras that give comfort and confidence, to running belts and hydration packs designed specifically for women, the right kit helps us feel free to move without distraction.
The conference reinforced something I deeply believe: when women feel included, comfortable, and confident, they unlock their full potential—not only in running, but in every area of life.
Why This Matters for KitFox
For me, the timing of this conference couldn’t have been better. As I launch KitFox, I carry Kathrine’s legacy with me as inspiration: to fight for inclusivity, to amplify women’s voices in sport, and to create a space where every woman feels confident, supported, and free when she runs.
Because women’s running isn’t just about miles logged or races completed—it’s about transformation, empowerment, and belonging. And when women run, extraordinary things really do happen.
👉 Over to you: What empowers you most when you run—community, confidence, or the right kit? Share your thoughts in the comments!