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Jacqueline Gareau A Champion Runner Who Found Her True Stride in Life

Jacqueline Gareau’s name is forever etched in marathon history, not just for her victory at the 1980 Boston Marathon but for the incredible grace and resilience she has shown throughout her life. From an elite runner setting records on the roads to a passionate advocate for health and wellness, Gareau’s journey is one of perseverance, redemption, and a deep love for movement.

The 1980 Boston Marathon The Champion Who Was Almost Denied

On April 21, 1980, Jacqueline Gareau stood at the starting line of the Boston Marathon, prepared to test herself on the legendary course. She ran with determination, leading the women’s field for most of the race. But when she crossed the finish line, something was wrong—another woman, Rosie Ruiz, had already been declared the winner.

Ruiz’s time of 2:31:56 was shockingly fast, raising immediate suspicions. Unlike other elite runners, she wasn’t sweating, didn’t look fatigued, and had barely been seen on the course. It soon became clear—she had not run the entire race. Instead, she had jumped into the course near the finish line, fooling officials into believing she had won.

Just over a week later, Ruiz was disqualified, and Jacqueline Gareau was officially recognized as the rightful champion with a time of 2:34:28, a new course record for women at the time.

Bob Anderson, then publisher of Runner’s World, saw Gareau shortly after the race and said, “We know who won today.” Those words carried weight, affirming that the running community had never doubted her victory.

A Career of Excellence

Winning Boston was a defining moment, but Gareau’s career was built on more than just one race.

• 1979 – She won both the Ottawa Marathon and Montreal Marathon.

• 1983 – She finished second at Boston with a personal best of 2:29:28.

• 1984 – She represented Canada at the Los Angeles Olympics, competing in the first-ever women’s Olympic marathon.

Her talent and work ethic made her one of Canada’s greatest marathoners, and her story became an inspiration for runners around the world.

From Running to Holistic Wellness

After stepping away from competitive racing, Gareau found a new passion—helping others heal. She became a massage therapist, focusing on injury prevention and recovery. Based in Sainte-Adèle, Quebec, she works with athletes and non-athletes alike, offering therapeutic massage, running form workshops, and public speaking engagements.

Her philosophy is simple but powerful: movement is life. She believes that staying active and listening to the body is the key to longevity and well-being. Her approach blends the discipline of an elite athlete with the mindfulness of a healer, making her a sought-after expert in health and fitness.

A New Passion on the Trails

While she still runs, Gareau has found another love—cross-country skiing. She often hits the trails multiple times a week, sometimes even more than she runs. The sport allows her to stay fit while enjoying nature, something she deeply values. Her love for skiing is another extension of her lifelong dedication to movement and staying active in a way that feels fulfilling.

A Lasting Impact on the Sport

Gareau’s influence extends beyond the finish line:

• Ambassador for Running and Wellness – She partners with brands, promoting footwear that supports natural movement and foot health.

• Speaker and Coach – She gives motivational talks, leads training clinics, and continues to inspire new generations of runners.

In 2005, she was honored as the Grand Marshal of the Boston Marathon, where she was invited to finally break the tape at the finish line—a symbolic gesture recognizing her rightful place in marathon history.

A True Champion On and Off the Course

Jacqueline Gareau’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and staying true to oneself. She not only overcame one of the biggest controversies in marathon history but also forged a life beyond running, helping others find balance, health, and strength.

Her story is more than just about winning a race—it’s about finding joy in movement, embracing new passions, and using her experience to uplift others. Whether through running, skiing, or holistic health, Jacqueline Gareau continues to show that being a champion is about so much more than crossing a finish line.

She wrote and sent this photo and said: "Every year, there is a trophy for the best female runner on road in Quebec. The Jacqueline Gareau trophy that I’m proud to give."

(03/13/2025) Views: 565 ⚡AMP
by Boris Baron