23rd Annual Student Research Conference
Comparison of Top 50 Men's and Women's Performance in the New York City Marathon from 1976-2009
Shannon K. Zaloudek
Dr. James A. Padfield, Faculty Mentor
Women were not allowed to participate in most marathon running events until the mid 1970's. The New York City Marathon is one of the largest marathons in America. The first year the New York City Marathon had at least 50 women finish the race was in 1976. From 1976 to 1982 the average time for the top 50 women rose from 157% of the average of the top 50 men's time to approximately 120% in 1982, where it has remained until 2009. While times have varied due to weather conditions, etc., both men's and women's times have improved slightly over the years. In 1976 the average top 50 men's time was 2:26.16 and the average top 50 women's time was 3:49.33. In 1982 the mens average was 2:16.43 and the womens average was 2:44.08. In 2009 the mens average was 2:21.27 and the womens average was 2:49.13.
Keywords: marathon , women's athletics
Topic(s):Exercise Science
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 53-1
Location: VH 1000
Time: 2:45