Grenadian long-distance runner Philomena Robertson has etched her name into regional sporting history after completing the prestigious World Marathon Majors series and earning the coveted Six Star Medal.
Robertson reached the milestone on March 1, 2026, in Tokyo, becoming the first Grenadian to accomplish the feat. Her achievement places her among a small group of athletes across the OECS and CARICOM regions to complete all six races in the global marathon series.
The accomplishment marks the culmination of years of endurance, discipline, and determination, with supporters describing it as a proud moment not only for Grenada but for the wider Caribbean.
A Long Journey to the Finish Line
Robertson’s pursuit of marathon excellence dates back more than a decade. She ran her first marathon in 2011 after being inspired by a charity runner in the Chicago Marathon, motivating her to explore similar opportunities tied to charitable causes in her native country.
She later competed in the New York City Marathon, raising funds for the Grenadian nonprofit Reach Within, which supports disadvantaged children.
In 2015, Robertson set an ambitious personal goal to complete six marathons in six months — a challenge she surpassed by finishing the races in just five months. She then went on to complete 12 marathons within a year, further cementing her reputation as a “super-marathoner.”
Pursuit of the Majors
Her next target was the World Marathon Majors, a series of elite races held in London, Boston, Chicago, New York, Berlin, and Tokyo.
Robertson previously acknowledged the financial and physical challenges of pursuing the series but remained determined to achieve what she called her “next mission.”
Since 2011, she has completed dozens of marathons worldwide and earned membership in endurance running groups including the Marathon Maniacs Club.
Regional Pride
Regional observers say Robertson’s historic finish underscores the growing presence of Caribbean athletes in global endurance sports.
Her milestone is widely being celebrated as a testament to resilience, mental strength, and perseverance — qualities she has frequently cited as essential to marathon running.
