When I go to the Boston Marathon now, I have wet shoulders—women fall into my arms crying. They're weeping for joy because running has changed their lives. They feel they can do anything.

Jock Semple and I were at daggers drawn for five years, even though I kind of forgave him from the get-go. I knew he was an over-stressed race director, I knew he was protecting his race. It took five years because we had to do our homework - meaning we women - we did our legislative work and we officially got into the Boston Marathon. Then, all was forgiven by Jock Semple.

When I go to the Boston Marathon now, I have wet shoulders—women fall into my arms crying. They're weeping for joy because running has changed their lives. They feel they can do anything.

I could feel my anger dissipating as the miles went by--you can't run and stay mad!

1967 race in Boston changed not just my life, but millions of women's lives. There are also things that, when you get older, resonate more.

Women were afraid and they would never even imagine running a marathon in 1967.

All you need is the courage to believe in yourself and put one foot in front of the other.