Boulder’s Lorraine Moller, Boston Marathon winner and four-time Olympian
Lorraine Moller is a name synonymous with the Boston Marathon, one of the most prestigious marathons in the world. She won the women’s division of the marathon in 1984, becoming the first New Zealand woman to achieve this feat. This win was the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and it cemented Moller’s place in running history.
Moller was born in New Zealand, in 1955. It was running that captured Moller’s heart, and she began competing in track and cross-country events as a teenager. Over the years, Moller continued to hone her skills and became a dominant force in distance running. She won numerous titles and accolades.
The 1984 Boston Marathon was a tough race, with heavy rain and strong winds making conditions difficult for the runners. However, Moller persevered, and she crossed the finish line in a time of 2 hours, 29 minutes and 28 seconds, beating her nearest competitor by over a minute. Her win was a huge achievement, not just for herself but for New Zealand and for women’s running in general.
Moller’s success at the Boston Marathon made her a household name, and she became an inspiration to millions of people around the world. However, despite her fame, Moller remained humble and focused on her sport. She continued to compete at the highest level for many years, and she also became a coach and mentor to other runners, passing on her knowledge and expertise to the next generation of athletes.
Moller moved to Boulder, Colorado, where she has lived ever since. She has become an integral part of the Boulder running community, and she is known for her friendly and approachable nature. She has continued to be involved in running, coaching and mentoring runners of all levels.
In addition to her achievements in running, Moller is also a respected author and motivational speaker. She has written several books about her experiences as a runner and coach, and she is a sought-after speaker on topics such as goal-setting, motivation and resilience.
In conclusion, Lorraine Moller is a remarkable person who has achieved so much in her life. Her win at the Boston Marathon was a defining moment in her career, but it was just one of many accomplishments that she has achieved over the years. Her New Zealand upbringing and her years in Boulder have shaped her into the wonderful person that she is today, and her dedication to running and to helping others is an inspiration to us all.
Photo credits: Colorado running Hall of Fame