Celebrating some of the runners that make the 10K shine
As we approach race day, we want to introduce some of our runners to the Boston 10K for Women community. Whether they’ve been running for decades or just picked it up, they all have wonderful stories to tell.
Brooke: Reclaiming Strength, Spirit, and Self
The Boston 10K for Women has always been a celebration of resilience, and few stories embody that spirit more than Brooke’s. A fitness instructor and trainer, she last ran the race in 2019, when what seemed like an ordinary finish line moment became the start of a life-changing journey. Days later, she suffered a life-threatening pulmonary embolism while traveling in Greece.
After a month of uncertainty, Brooke returned home determined to rebuild her strength. It wasn’t the first time she’d faced such a challenge—having recovered from a broken pelvis years earlier to run a half marathon. But just as she was regaining her footing, the world shifted. The pandemic arrived, followed by the joys and challenges of motherhood with children born in 2021 and 2024.
In the midst of balancing career, family, and postpartum struggles, running took a back seat. Yet Brooke never lost sight of her goal: to once again cross the finish line at the Boston 10K for Women.
This year, Brooke is making it happen. “It has been too long since I’ve done something for me,” she shares. For her, finishing this race represents not just endurance, but the reclaiming of her innermost spirit—and the merging of hard-won resilience with her identity as a mother.
We’re proud to welcome Brooke back to the start line. Her determination reminds us all that every step forward is a victory.
Kathi Wyatt: Finding Strength in the Community
“I’m not really what you’d call a runner — I’ve often said I can walk faster than I run,” Kathi Wyatt laughs. But at 69 years old, she’s preparing for her 10th Boston 10K for Women, a milestone that fills her with pride.
Though the race doesn’t get any easier, it’s the incredible community of women that keeps Kathi coming back. She remembers one runner who stopped at every mile marker just to cheer everyone on. Another moment stands out vividly — while she was struggling on Charles Street, a fellow participant encouraged her with, “C’mon, you’ve got this.” Those few words gave her the energy to run the final stretch to the Finish Line.
For Kathi, the Boston 10K for Women is more than a race; it’s a celebration of encouragement, resilience, and the power of women lifting each other up. She’s grateful to be part of it every year and hopes to continue running for many more. 
Mariia and Olesya: Two Pals Cross the Finish Line Together
Not even the Atlantic Ocean can stop these two pals! Originally from Ukraine, Mariia’s good friend Olesya travelled from the U.K. to Boston, and both signed up for the Boston 10K for Women. Mariia wanted to share what she described as “a unifying 10K run” that celebrates the “wisdom, power, and unity” of women.
The two friends celebrated with a pasta party the night before the race, but unfortunately Mariia felt ill the next morning. She tried to run normally but felt even worse after running for 30 minutes despite her determination. Though Olesya was attempting to reach a new PR, she slowed down just to encourage and cheer up Mariia.
Due to Olesya’s encouragement (and funny jokes), Mariia was able to finish the race under one hour. Mariia says that Olesya was more than just a running buddy, and that her friendship embodies the mission of the Boston 10K for Women.
Nancy Parker: Running with Resilience and Joy
At the Boston 10K for Women, every runner brings a story that inspires us all. Nancy Parker, age 74, shows us the true meaning of resilience, courage, and joy.
Nancy has been running for more than 20 years, completing three marathons and 19 half marathons—but she’ll tell you her favorite distance is the 10K. “I love the spirit that is there and how everyone makes all feel welcome,” she shares.
Her path to running wasn’t easy. After facing addiction, heartbreak, and moments of deep struggle, Nancy has been drug-free for 17 years and credits running as a powerful part of her journey. Her story is a testament to perseverance, healing, and the belief that it’s never too late to find strength and community.
Nancy first ran the Boston 10K for Women four years ago. After taking last year off to recover from shoulder surgery, she is back at the start line this fall, determined to give it her best. “I promise that I will try to run this race until I physically can’t,” she says.
We can’t wait to cheer for you, Nancy. Your spirit embodies everything this race is about.
