At the age of 66, Suzy Seeley is poised to achieve a remarkable milestone by completing her 350th marathon at the 2026 Chevron Houston Marathon. This significant event not only highlights her dedication to running but also showcases her journey, which began over three decades ago.
From Casual Runner to Marathon Veteran
Seeley started her running career at 35, participating in her first race, the Houston Marathon, in 1995. Reflecting on that initial experience, she recalled, “When I finished, I couldn’t walk for a week afterwards.” Despite the physical challenge, Seeley quickly found her stride. “I picked it back up, and I thought… Well, I can do that again next year,” she added. This mindset transformed her passion into a lifelong pursuit.
Since then, Seeley has made every Houston Marathon a staple of her running journey, with the exception of the 2020 race, which was canceled due to the pandemic. Her commitment extends beyond local races; she has completed marathons in all 50 states and on every continent, including Antarctica. This extensive experience is chronicled in her book, This Is The Race.
Family Involvement and Community Support
As Seeley’s running journey evolved, it became a family affair. Her husband has joined her in running, while her daughter has completed 12 marathons. Notably, her son, Ryan, is set to run his first marathon this Sunday. “When I started running, I would run before the kids woke up. So, no one even knew I was running until I went to the marathon. Now, they are my biggest support crew,” Seeley explained.
Her achievements have garnered a mix of reactions from those who learn about her extensive marathon experience. Many express disbelief, while the most common question she receives is about how many marathons she completes in a year. Seeley averages between 12 and 14 marathons annually. When asked about her future goals, her answer remains focused: the next marathon.
Seeley has also made her mark in the record books. She holds a Guinness World Record for the fastest aggregate time to complete a marathon in all 50 U.S. states for a female. Additionally, according to the World Record Academy, she holds the record for the most marathons run under four hours by a female.
“Running kicks in my endorphins, and it makes me feel happy. I know that’s cliché. It clears my mind,” Seeley stated, highlighting the mental and emotional benefits she derives from her running routine.
As Suzy Seeley approaches her 350th marathon, her story serves as an inspiring testament to the power of perseverance, family support, and the joy of running. Her journey reflects not only personal achievement but also the communal spirit of marathon running, where each race becomes a celebration of dedication and passion.
