State Capital Museum Celebrates 30th Anniversary of Women’s Olympic Marathon Trials in Olympia

Marathon Trials Finish Line, WSHS Collections

 

Submitted by Washington State Historical Society

Marathon Trials Finish Line, WSHS Collections
Marathon Trials Finish Line, WSHS Collections

Thirty years ago Olympia made history – women’s history – by hosting the Women’s Olympic Marathon Trials. In honor of this event, the State Capital Museum will host a panel discussion at 12 p.m. on Monday, May 5.

The discussion is part of the Monday Noon Lecture Series at the State Capital Museum in Olympia. This program, “30th Anniversary of Women’s Olympic Marathon Trials in Olympia,” is an opportunity for attendees to hear first-hand perspectives about the First Women’s Olympic Marathon Trials, which were held on Saturday, May 12, 1984 on a 26.2-mile course throughout Olympia and vicinity.

Over 200 elite runners participated, and more than 3,000 volunteers helped put on the event that drew 50,000 spectators. Three runners qualified to represent the U.S. in the Olympics in Los Angeles that year – Joan Benoit (who won a Gold medal), Julie Brown, and Julie Isphording.

“The trials were a turning point in recognizing women’s strength as athletes and in opening up opportunities for women to compete,” explains Shanna Stevenson, coordinator of the Women’s History Consortium. “It also showed that Olympia could showcase a high profile event on a national stage.”

This panel discussion will be comprised of four individuals who were actively involved in securing the trials for Olympia, participating in the race management, and commemorating the event. Comments from the audience are welcome. The discussion will be filmed by Thurston Community Television, courtesy of the City of Olympia. Organized by the Washington State Historical Society in partnership with the Women’s History Consortium.

Celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Women’s Olympic Marathon Trials on Monday, May 5,  in the Coach House building at the State Capital Museum. Admission is free or a suggested $2 donation, and the event starts at noon. For more information, click here, or contact Shanna Stevenson at 360-586-0171 or shanna.stevenson@wshs.wa.gov.