Running is a sport that transcends age, and for many, it’s a lifelong passion that evolves over time. One inspiring story is that of Stephanie O’Dell, a 62-year-old marathon runner who is gearing up to participate in the New York City Marathon alongside her daughter, Maggie. This marks a significant milestone for both, as it is Maggie’s first marathon and Stephanie’s first in nearly three decades.
Stephanie’s journey into running began after college, where it quickly became a social activity shared with friends and her husband. The couple sought out marathons in cities they wished to explore, completing races in iconic locations such as San Francisco, Washington D.C., and New York City. One of her most memorable experiences was finishing the Boston Marathon in 1996 while four months pregnant. Her son takes pride in the fact that he was a marathon runner even before he was born.
After her pregnancy, Stephanie continued to run shorter distances, participating in 5Ks and 10Ks around the Bay Area. However, in 1999, she faced a significant setback with an Achilles rupture that required nine months of recovery. Despite this challenge, she remained committed to trail running and racing, finding solace in physical activity that contributed positively to her mental health.
As she entered her early 50s, Stephanie began to experience the effects of menopause, which brought about changes in her physical capabilities. She noticed a decline in her strength and an increase in fatigue and brain fog, prompting her to reassess her fitness routine. The exercises that once empowered her started to feel more challenging, leading her to believe that marathons might no longer be a viable goal.
After much contemplation, Stephanie commenced hormone replacement therapy about a year ago. Initially hesitant due to the costs and the difficulty in finding a trusted practitioner, she eventually found a suitable treatment plan. Within three months of starting the therapy, she began to regain her muscle strength, significantly impacting her overall well-being.
Feeling revitalized in her 60s has had a profound effect on Stephanie’s life. When her daughter Maggie, now 24, proposed running the New York City Marathon together, Stephanie decided to embrace the challenge rather than focus on her age or past limitations. This opportunity represents not only a chance to bond with her daughter but also to support the Special Olympics, a cause that has been close to their family for over 15 years.
Maggie, who currently resides in Chicago and has recently been working in Lisbon, has been training independently. To prepare for their marathon, Stephanie is traveling to Athens to join Maggie for their final long run of 20 miles. This intergenerational partnership has been an exciting journey for both mother and daughter.
Supporting them in their training is Lisa Felder, an ultramarathon runner at 77 years old. Lisa provides invaluable guidance, helping them structure their training schedules and nutrition plans. Her expertise and experience serve as an inspiration, reinforcing the idea that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing fitness goals.
As they prepare for the marathon, Stephanie and Maggie are not just training their bodies but also building a deeper connection through their shared passion for running. With each mile they log together, they are creating memories that will last a lifetime, proving that it’s never too late to chase after your dreams and inspire others along the way.
For those considering taking up running or returning to it after a break, Stephanie’s story serves as a powerful reminder that physical activity can adapt to any stage of life. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a beginner, the key is to listen to your body, set achievable goals, and find joy in the journey.
As the New York City Marathon approaches, Stephanie and Maggie are ready to tackle the challenge ahead. Their story exemplifies resilience, the importance of family support, and the belief that age should not limit one’s aspirations. Together, they are not only running for a cause but also celebrating the joy of movement and the bond that running can create between generations.
