Desiree Linden has been named the inaugural CITIUS MAG Female Athlete of the Year after her stunning win at the 2018 Boston Marathon.

The decision was made based off conversations between CITIUS MAG staff writers.

Linden made history in April by becoming the first American woman to win the Boston Marathon in 33 years. For years, Linden had always been in the mix to become the first woman to end the U.S. drought. She finished second in 2011 by just seconds and has become a regular on the starting line in Hopkinton on Patriots’ Day ever since. Her mantra for years has been, “Keep showing up.” That’s something runners of all ages and abilities can apply to their own respective goals and running.

For those who have run a marathon, we know that there are highs and lows that come with training and racing. Linden has experienced that. She nearly dropped out by the seventh mile but stayed in the race to assist her compatriot and friend, Shalane Flanagan. By the 22nd mile, she felt better and found the strength to blow past the East African leaders and cross the finish line on Boylston Street as a champion.

We’ve charted out how consistent Des has been over the years. We’ve raved about how much of a badass she is. Now it’s only fitting that we name her our inaugural CITIUS MAG Female Athlete of the Year because while the win in Boston cemented her place among the all-time greats in American distance running, it created an unforgettable moment for Boston, the marathon and fans of the sport.

In honor of Des Linden winning the CITIUS MAG Female Athlete of the Year Award, we have designed this special digital cover and you can own it in a 11 x 14 print. The cover is on sale for a limited time. There are only 100 covers available so don’t miss out. Get your own here.

“Just like her victory in Boston, Des is larger than life. And the fearless perseverance that has become her brand truly exemplifies everything that is right with our sport in this age. Underdog, come-from-behind stories aren’t just satisfying because the “good guy” (or gal) gets to win; it’s because we think that one day we can do the same. And Des is not just easy to cheer for because she is funny and tough, but because we see ourselves in her story.” – from David Melly’s ‘The Case for Des Linden’