Belgian Woman Sets World Record For Daily Marathons

Belgian ultra runner Hilde Dosogne, center, is cheered on as she crosses the finish line during her 366th consecutive marathon in Ghent, Belgium, Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024. (AP Photo/Virginia Mayo)

Belgian ultra runner Hilde Dosogne made history on the last day of 2024 by completing a marathon every single day of the year, aiming to set a new world record as the first woman to achieve this remarkable feat. Dosogne, aged 55, crossed the finish line amidst a crowd of supporters, expressing relief that her grueling challenge had come to an end.

Throughout the year, Dosogne ran a total of at least 15,444 kilometers, while also managing to raise approximately 60,000 euros for breast cancer research. Her dedication and perseverance in the face of numerous obstacles, including flu, COVID, multiple crashes, blisters, and bursitis, exemplify her unwavering commitment to the cause.

To secure her place in the Guinness World Records, Dosogne meticulously documented her daily runs with GPS data, photos, videos, and witness reports. Pending approval, she is set to claim the record in about three months, surpassing the current female record of 150 days.

She ran at least 15,444 kilometers and raised 60,000 euros for breast cancer research.

Hilde Dosogne ran a marathon daily for a year, aiming for a world record.

Dosogne faced flu, COVID, crashes, blisters, and bursitis during her challenge.

She meticulously documented her runs to secure a Guinness World Record.

Her mental fortitude and consistent pace of 10 km/h were key to her success.

Family support and running near Ghent, Belgium, helped Dosogne stay motivated.

She plans to attempt the Spartathlon in Greece after a brief break.

Dosogne emphasized the risks and sacrifices involved in her year-long challenge.

She remains dedicated to supporting breast cancer research.

Dosogne's mental fortitude proved to be her greatest asset, as she emphasized the psychological challenges of maintaining her daily marathon routine. Despite facing physical strains, she remained resilient, completing most of her marathons on a flat loop near Ghent, Belgium.

As a bio-engineer balancing her demanding job with her running schedule, Dosogne adhered to a consistent pace of 10 kilometers per hour, allowing friends and family to join her on some runs. Her husband and children, all sports enthusiasts, provided invaluable support throughout her journey.

Reflecting on her experience, Dosogne acknowledged the risks and sacrifices involved, cautioning against attempting a similar feat. Her daughter's determination to restart a marathon after an injury exemplified the family's unwavering dedication to Dosogne's goal.

Despite her physical and mental challenges, Dosogne remains committed to supporting breast cancer research, inspired by the stories of friends and fellow runners who battled the disease. While she plans to take a brief respite in the new year, Dosogne has her sights set on the Spartathlon in Greece, a 246-kilometer race scheduled for September.

Looking ahead, Dosogne expressed contentment with her monumental achievement, stating that she does not foresee embarking on any endeavors more ambitious than her year-long marathon challenge.