Athena
A weight-based competition category for female runners, typically those over 160 lbs (72.5 kg).
What is the Athena Category?
The Athena division is the female counterpart to the Clydesdale division. It is a racing category for women above a certain weight, named after the Greek goddess of wisdom and war, representing strength and power.
Weight Standards
Like Clydesdales, the cutoff varies by race:
- USA Triathlon: 165 lbs (75 kg) and over.
- Common Road Races: 150 lbs (68 kg) or 160 lbs (72.5 kg) and over.
The Goal
To recognize athletic achievement across different body types. Many women in the Athena category are exceptionally strong and fit, but their body composition puts them at a disadvantage in standard speed-based age group rankings.
Community
The Athena category is often celebrated for its inclusivity and body positivity, shifting the focus from "looking like a typical runner" to performing as an athlete regardless of size.
Strength comes in all sizes. The Athena division celebrates power on the course.
Athena
Explore more at
RunningSlang.com
Related Terms
Age Grouper
An amateur runner who competes against others in their specific age category (e.g., Men 40-44) rather than for the overall win.
Clydesdale
A weight-based competition category for heavier male runners, typically those over 200 lbs (90 kg) or 220 lbs (100 kg).
Elite Runner
A professional or semi-professional athlete who competes for prize money and typically runs at a pace unimaginable to the average human.
Race & Results
Know a term we missed?
Help us grow the dictionary by submitting new running terms or slang.
Submit a Term