On November 1, 2025, at the historic New York Athletic Club, we will gather for more than just a celebration—it will be a morning of legacy, courage, and connection. We will honor the fearless spirit of Kathrine Switzer and recognize those who are carrying her torch forward.
Nearly six decades ago, Kathrine pinned on bib number 261 and became the first woman to officially run the Boston Marathon. In that unforgettable race, when officials tried to physically push her off the course, she kept running. That fearless act didn’t just secure her place on the roads, it opened the door for millions of women who would follow. Her courage showed the world that running is not about miles covered, but about freedom, joy, and empowerment.
Now, in her honor, 261 Fearless Inc. is proud to introduce the K.V. Switzer Awards.
Tributes to Transformation
These awards celebrate individuals who are carrying forward Kathrine’s spirit by using running to uplift women and communities. They recognize people who know that one person’s fearless step can inspire thousands more.
Three awards will be presented:
–The Pioneer Award presented by Team Milk’s Every Woman’s Marathon – honoring those who blaze new trails for women in running, breaking down barriers so others can follow.
–The Community Impact Award presented by adidas – shining a light on those who use running as a tool for social change, creating safe, supportive spaces that go beyond sport.
–The Global Connector Award presented by Beyond Finance – celebrating those who link women across borders, building networks of strength and solidarity around the world.
In the weeks ahead, we’ll introduce the nominees – five extraordinary individuals in each category – whose stories reflect courage, compassion, and connection.
Kathrine’s Words
As Kathrine herself said:
“The candidates for this award are people who have been personally impacted by physical activity, running in particular, and want to pass on that sense of freedom and joy and fearlessness to others. Running can change the world in a very positive way.”
And that’s what this brunch event is all about—celebrating running not just as a sport, but as a catalyst for change.
Fearless Together
At 261 Fearless, we believe that when women run together, barriers fall. Since our founding in 2015, we’ve built a global network spanning 14 countries and five continents, where women of all backgrounds can find strength, connection, and a safe space to grow, one step at a time.
The K.V. Switzer Awards are an extension of that mission. They are our way of honoring those who embody fearlessness and inspire others to do the same.
Stay tuned for the announcement of the nominees, and mark your calendars for the K.V. Switzer Awards on November 1, 2025. You can tune in via live stream and not miss a moment!
👉 Learn more about the K.V. Switzer Awards and our mission to empower women through running at https://www.261fearless.org/
