Paula Radcliffe

3x London marathon winner and former fastest female marathon runner of all time

Paula Radcliffe is a former long-distance runner and world record holder, having held the Women’s World Marathon Record for 16 years. She is widely regarded as one of the greatest female long-distance runners of all time, having won the London Marathon on three occasions. Aged 7, Paula began running, and soon established herself as one of the top junior runners in the country, competing in various distances, ranging from 800m to 10,000m. Paula made her Olympic debut in 1996, where she finished in 5th place in the 5000m. From then on, Paula secured many more successes, such as three Gold medals in the World Cross Country Championships, three Gold medals in the World Half Marathon Championships and three Gold medals in the European Cross Country Championships.

A talented marathon runner, Paula has won the London Marathon on three occasions, the New York Marathon three times and the Chicago Marathon once. She has also represented Team GB at four consecutive Olympic Games from 1996 to 2008, and was inducted into the England Athletics Hall of Fame. Paula is a highly decorated athlete, having won numerous awards throughout her career. She was appointed MBE and nominated for BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2007. She also received the BBC Sports Award for Sporting Moment of the Year in 2003 and won the Laureus World Comeback of the Year in 2008. In 2016, Paula was also named the Londoner of the Year by the London Press Club.

A true sporting role model, Paula is also revered as a staunch advocate for women’s rights in sports.  Speaking out against gender inequality in sports, Paula is an icon for modern athletics, and her achievements stand as a testament to her hard work and dedication. Her commitment to her sport, and her unwavering dedication, have made her an inspiration to millions of people worldwide. If you are looking for an inspirational sportswoman to speak this International Women’s Day, hire Paula Radcliffe today.

Use of IWD Speakers Directory is at user discretion.
IWD Speakers are not endorsed. Information is provided by the speaker or their agency.


IWD Event Packs orders
IWD Toolkit
Where Women Work

Join the global IWD Community