American track and field star Sanya Richards-Ross will be the event ambassador for the Airtel Delhi half marathon to be held on October 21. She is the fastest American woman in the history of 400m with her time of 48.70s set at the 2006 IAAF World Cup.
In her message, Sanya said, “It is an honour to be the ambassador of one of the world’s most prestigious half marathons. Running a half marathon is so much hard work, remaining disciplined and determined, the same mentality one can use to achieve other goals. I’m pretty excited about this role and will be happy to share my experiences and hope I can inspire everyone starting the race that day.”
She added, “This is my first visit to India and I have heard only wonderful things about the country. I look forward to soaking in all the local flavours and feel the magic of this colourful city.”
After a 400m silver medal and 4x400m gold at the 2002 World junior championships, Sanya made a big impact in the senior ranks during the 2003 IAAF World Championship where, despite being just 18, she anchored the USA to the 4x400m title.
From there on, she went on to dominate the world stage over one lap of the track, winning the 2009 400m World title, three World championships 4x400m gold medals (2007, 2009, 2011) as well various other major championship medals.
Sanya also won three consecutive 4x400m gold medals at the Olympic Games (2004, 2008, 2012) and — after bronze in Beijing four years earlier — she become the first American female runner to win an individual 400m gold medal in 28 years as she was crowned the champion in 400m at the London 2012 Olympic Games. She retired in 2016.
