As the final hours of 2024 faded into history, Belgian ultra-runner Hilde Dosogne crossed her last marathon finish line of the year. With 366 marathons completed in as many days, Dosogne is poised to secure a Guinness World Record as the first woman to accomplish this extraordinary feat.
Standing triumphant despite the icy winds and a year of relentless running, the 55-year-old bioengineer reflected on her journey. “I’m glad it’s over,” she admitted, a mix of relief and pride evident in her voice. Moments earlier, she had collided with a spectator during her final run but pressed on, embodying the determination that defined her yearlong challenge.
A Feat Beyond Numbers
Over the course of 2024, Dosogne logged over 15,444 kilometers (9,596 miles) and raised an impressive €60,000 ($62,438) for breast cancer research. Her effort extends beyond personal accomplishment; it’s a testament to human persistence. But Dosogne is quick to caution against seeing her journey as a model of healthy living.
“This was about perseverance, not health,” she explained. The road was fraught with obstacles: bouts of flu, COVID-19, multiple injuries, and severe mental fatigue. “The mental strain is harder than the physical,” she emphasized. “Physically, everything must work. But mentally, showing up every single day was the real challenge.”
Breaking Records and Barriers
If verified by Guinness World Records, Dosogne will join Hugo Farias of Brazil, who holds the men’s record for consecutive marathons at 366 days. Her achievement surpasses the previous women’s record of 150 days, set by Australia’s Erchana Murray-Bartlett in early 2023.
Her rigorous documentation process—daily GPS data, photo and video evidence, and witness reports—is now under review. Guinness’ decision is expected in approximately three months.
Juggling Life and Marathons
Balancing her career as a bioengineer at a chemical firm, Dosogne adhered to a strict routine. Early mornings at work were followed by afternoons dedicated to her 42.5-kilometer runs. “I added a bit extra to ensure there were no doubts about the distance,” she explained. Most of her marathons took place on a flat loop near Ghent, where strong headwinds often provided an additional challenge.
Her steady pace of 10 kilometers per hour (6.2 mph) allowed friends and witnesses to join her, adding a social element to the otherwise solitary endeavor. “I couldn’t have done this without their support,” she said.
A Family’s Role
Dosogne’s daughter, Lucie, recalled one of the most harrowing moments of the year. “She crashed after 27 kilometers, dislocated a finger, and had to go to the emergency ward,” Lucie said. Faced with losing a day to regulations, Dosogne restarted the marathon from scratch after being treated. “It’s still a little crooked,” Dosogne admitted, showing her injured finger with a smile.
A Legacy of Resilience
Though physically grueling, Dosogne’s journey was as much a mental battle as it was a physical one. Her story has resonated far beyond Ghent, inspiring others to embrace their own challenges—whether large or small.
“It’s not about being perfect or fast,” she reflected. “It’s about showing up and pushing through.” As the world waits for Guinness to officially recognize her record, Dosogne has already cemented her place in history as a symbol of determination and endurance.
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