The Two Oceans Marathon has painted it's social media platforms with congratulatory post to Claremont's Lucille Damon for being the first and the only woman to reach the Triple Blue Status in South Africa.
And the race director at the Two Oceans, Debra Barnes, told the Weekend Argus "Lucille set a new standard by being the first woman competitor to ever reach 30 Ultra Marathons or reach her Triple Blue status.“
She was honoured with the title after completing her 30th race in 2019, but on Thursday they celebrated her on social media as their woman of the month.
"We are honoured to have an average of 50% or more women participating in the Half Marathon year-on-year, and if this trend continues, women will dominate the Half Marathon. As they look to the example Lucille has set, they will continue to be change makers.
"Lucille is a graceful, smart and humble history-maker who has redefined the limits for female participants."
The Wynberg Girls’ High School accounting teacher started with the marathon in 1990 and has never looked back.
She completed her 30th race in 2019 and has since remained the only female against male counterparts.
According to Barnes she's also won best of 11th in category to boot in the year 2000, "and has only not placed in the top 100 in her category six times – incredible!"
"When Lucille Damon set off on her first Ultra Marathon in 1990, a few if any commentators or race historians would have thought her staying power would last for an incredible three decades, never mind three decades consecutively." Barnes added.
"Recognition, unbelievable," that's Damon's reaction when she heard about the post on Facebook.
She said it is rewarding and a proof that hardwork pays off as she described running as a gruesome sweet pain.
“It’s a feeling of freedom and uplifting.
“I have been part of the Two Oceans marathon for 31 years, being the only woman to reach the Triple Blue Status makes it even more special.
“After I had completed 26 Two Oceans Ultra I realised I was able to break a record. This motivated me even more,” explained Damon.
Remembering the day that scored her the title, Damon said: “The feeling which I experienced running onto the field that day was so emotional, an experience which will never be forgotten.
“You just cannot explain the sensation.
"There is something about putting on your shoes and heading out whether on the road, in the forest or up the mountain, away from the crowds.
“It has taken me to wonderful places, its an ever unfolding journey,” said Damon.
The outdoor fanatic said running isn’t just for health reasons, but is therapeutic, a great hobby to mingle with people and a best motivator to set goals and achieving them.
She does trails, walks a hiking too to cool off from her schedule.