Kastor to run her first Boston

American Deena Kastor will be at the starting line in Hopkinton for the 111th Boston Marathon on April 16, 2007.

Last year Kastor earned the #1 women's world ranking by Track & Field News for her unstoppable 2:19:36 win in London. Best known for her inspirational bronze medal performance in the 2004 Athens Olympic Marathon, Kastor is a former world record holder in the 5K, a two-time silver medalist at the World Cross Country Championships, and the 2005 Chicago Marathon champion. She is also a multiple American record holder on the roads and track, has won 18 national titles, and is an eight-time NCAA All-American.

“Five and a half years after my first marathon, I am finally running Boston,” says Kastor.

“Tradition, sponsors and fans make this the greatest and most well respected marathon in the world. It is an honor to be a part of Boston this year and it is my greatest desire to win this prestigious event.”

Kastor, who lives in California but has roots in the Boston area, added “I am hoping the crowds will be especially loud as I pass the Newton-Wellesley Hospital as that is where I was born 34 years ago.”

Source: BAA