Better Faster Farther: How Running Changed Everything We Know About Women

Better Faster Farther chronicles the history and triumphs of women in competitive running, from the first unauthorized female marathon in 1896 to today’s record-breaking ultramarathons. Despite societal, medical, and institutional barriers—including sexism, restrictive norms, and lack of proper gear—women persisted, proving their strength and redefining what’s possible.

Award-winning journalist Maggie Mertens highlights the struggles, victories, and resilience of female runners, showing how they’ve challenged stereotypes, broken records, and transformed our understanding of power, endurance, and gender in sport.