Regis and Kelly Live host Kelly Ripa, the inspiration behind the event also competed with the other participants, sprinting for a combined total of $30,000 as well as a variety of fun prizes.
Ripa thinks the marathon is a way of recognizing women’s unique talent for walking in heels, “completing 26.2 miles in running shoes is nothing — try spending a full day running errands, taking the kids to school and shopping, all in 4-inch heels,” Ripa declared. “THAT’S what I call a real marathon! So our High Heel-A-Thon is a way of showcasing a unique unsung talent for which most women are never recognised.”
Five hundred women and eleven men from almost 40 states showed up to compete, forming a Guiness World record for the largest number of women running in high heels, as well as the fastest time running 150 yards in high heels.
New York City’s High-Heel-A-Thon – a 150-yard dash for charity wearing high heels is not for the faint hearted. Unlike run of the mill sprints, participants in this event must wear high heels – at least 3 inches (over 7 cm) high.
The event took place in Central Park, New York, on Wednesday (July 9) and was officially open to women only, although men were able to participate in a special honorary race, naturally also in heels.
Watch your step ladies!!!
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