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Teacher Dribbles Way to Guinness World Record Marathon Finish

December 28, 2024
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Maria Babineau dribbled a basketball for 26.2 miles, finishing the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in her debut at the distance.

The 2023 Toronto Waterfront Marathon delivered excitement, with Ethiopia’s Buze Diriba Kejela claiming victory in the women’s race with a personal best of 2:23:11. In the men’s race, Elvis Kipchoge Cheboi crossed the finish line first in 2:09:20.

While no course records were set, the event was filled with remarkable moments, including 20 unique Guinness World Record attempts.

Dribbling Her Way into the Record Books

Among the highlights was elementary school teacher Maria Babineau, who set a new record for the fastest female marathon completed while dribbling a basketball.

Babineau finished the race in an impressive 3:57:40, breaking the previous record of 4:28:11 set by Italy’s Marinella Satta in 2010.

“My students know how much I love basketball, and they encouraged me to go for a basketball-related record,” Babineau shared.

“Their enthusiasm inspired me to show them that anything is possible.”

Overcoming Challenges on Race Day

Video footage shows Babineau confidently dribbling her basketball, alternating hands as she passed other runners. Despite cramping in her arms at times, the cheering spectators and supportive fellow runners helped her push through to the finish.

The marathon was Babineau’s first, accomplished after just seven weeks of preparation. Her training included unique challenges, such as dogs chasing the ball and practicing with a GoPro strapped to her chest to meet Guinness verification requirements.

Running for a Cause

Babineau’s record-breaking attempt wasn’t just about the thrill of accomplishment, it was also for a good cause.

She raised funds for Ronald McDonald House Ottawa, where she volunteers, surpassing her $1,000 CAD goal to help purchase an adjustable basketball net for families to enjoy.

Babineau also donated $1 per kilometer during her training, presenting both the basketball net and the record-setting ball to the organization after the race.

Inspiring Feats in Marathon History

For those inspired by Babineau’s achievement, the men’s Guinness record for dribbling a basketball in a marathon is currently held by Steffan Reimer, who completed a marathon in 2:50 while bouncing the ball in 2021.

Maria Babineau’s story exemplifies determination, creativity, and the power of running for a cause,proving that even first-time marathoners can achieve extraordinary things.

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