Paula Radcliffe

Paula Jane Radcliffe (born 17 December, 1973) is a British long-distance runner. She is the current world record holder for the women's marathon, which she set during the 2003 London Marathon, with a time of 2:15.25.

Early career

Radcliffe was born in Northwich, Cheshire but she grew up in Bedfordshire and is a member of Bedford Athletic Club. She studied French, German and economics at Loughborough University. Her early running success was in cross country events, including the 1992 World Junior title, beating Wang Junxia. She missed the 1994 season through injury, but came back with a succession of good results at 5000m, including fifth place in both the 1995 World Championships and 1996 Olympic Games. However, Paula seemed destined never to win a major 5,000m or 10,000m title, finishing out of the medals again at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney.

Related Topics:
Northwich - Cheshire - Bedfordshire - Bedford Athletic Club - Loughborough University - Cross country - 1992 - Wang Junxia - 1994 - 5000m - 1995 World Championships - 1996 Olympic Games - 2000 Olympic Games - Sydney

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Radcliffe is not known for her sprint finish, and so to win a race must attack and leave her competitors behind, as was seen in the 10,000 metres at the 2000 Olympic Games when she finished fourth despite leading for 24 laps out of 25.

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