Kathia Rached

Kathia Rached is a trailblazing Lebanese ultramarathoner whose passion for endurance running began in her 30s. She’s the first Lebanese and Arab woman to complete the prestigious 4 Deserts series and holds several national ultramarathon Lebanese records. Her testimony is a powerful reminder that with determination and passion, it’s possible to overcome challenges and reach extraordinary heights.

What inspired you to start your sports journey?

What pushed me to start was the feeling of routine and emptiness in life. I felt things like hangouts and parties no longer had any meaning or value to me. It’s not that those things were bad; it’s just that they didn’t fulfill something deeper within me. I found myself feeling bored and lost. In a moment of honesty with myself, I said: I want to start something new, something that gives meaning to my life, something that allows me to grow and, hopefully, benefit others as well. And that’s how it all began.

What sports achievement are you most proud of so far?

There’s no single outstanding achievement for me; everything I’ve done in my life is something I’m proud of: four desert ultramarathons, 100km races, 24-hour races, countless marathons, holding the 100km Lebanese record and the 24-hour Lebanese record… I even went back to university after the age of 35 to change my field of study. And even more so, after the age of 45, I moved to Canada to pursue a Master’s in Sports Science. I’m truly proud of every single one of these experiences.

What advice would you give to young girls who want to pursue your sport seriously?

Don’t ever think there’s something you can’t do. There’s nothing we’re incapable of. Nothing is impossible. That’s what I truly believe. Even if the goal seems far away, difficult, or even frightening, we can still chase it and achieve it with excellence.

What’s one small change that could make a big difference for women athletes in Lebanon?

If I had to highlight one thing that truly helps someone achieve their dreams, it would be sponsorship. Having financial support enables driven athletes to pursue their dreams.

Where would you like to see women’s sport in Lebanon in the future (10-20 years down the line)?

Overall, women in Lebanon are amazing and excelling in the sports field. Women across the country have achieved great things, such as in running, triathlon, weightlifting, even sports administration, and bureaucratic roles. Women in Lebanon have truly stood out and have made a remarkable impact across the sports landscape.
Where can we go from here? Much, much further. Because if we’re already achieving so much with so few resources, imagine what we could do with real support. So yes, we can absolutely reach far and achieve great things.

Bonus Question: What’s one thing people would never guess about you as an athlete?

I’m not sure if people know this about me, but there are three things.
First, I can’t run without eyeliner - I just can’t!
Second, I love singing. Sometimes I even sing while I’m running.
And third, I eat a lot - really, I eat a lot!
But the eyeliner? That’s a must.