Bevans Teams
2025: 50th Anniversary Team
2025 marks the 50th anniversary of Marilyn Bevans’ legendary run at the 1975 Boston Marathon. To commemorate this moment, the Black Unicorn Marathoners honor a new class of athletes whose stories reflect the depth and strength of Bevans' enduring legacy.
Tay Artis
A respected athlete and connector in the running community. Tay’s leadership and energy continue to inspire runners across generations.
Alisa Harvey
Returning from the 2023 inaugural team, Alisa brings with her decades of experience and a legacy of trailblazing in track and distance running.
Erica Stanley-Dottin
Record-setting marathoner and advocate for Black women’s visibility in endurance sport. Erica’s voice and presence reflect the power of representation.
Michelle Wheeler
Returning honoree, Michelle exemplifies what it means to pursue excellence in all areas of life—sport, family, and service.
2024 Team Marilyn Bevans
The 2024 team reflects a powerful mix of elite athletes, health professionals, and community builders—each connected by purpose and passion. Their accomplishments go beyond the course, inspiring future generations of runners.
Madie Boreman
National-level middle-distance runner with standout personal bests: 4:10 in the 1500m, 9:22 in the steeplechase. A multi-time race winner, Madie is committed to empowering young girls through sport and self-expression.
Ari Hendrix
A V.O2 Certified Coach and elite marathoner with a 2:35:13 PR. A 2024 Olympic Marathon Trials qualifier, Ari’s work and racing elevate visibility for African American and LGBTQIA+ athletes.
Jen Kanyugi
Celebrated her 20th consecutive Boston Marathon in 2024. Known for her community advocacy and work with youth programs, Jen balances athletic grit with a deep commitment to service.
Dr. Benita Stephens
Board-certified OB/GYN and Obesity Medicine specialist with 26 marathons completed. A Six Star Finisher and Guinness World Record holder, Dr. Stephens is a champion for women’s health and excellence in aging.
Michelle Wheeler
Elite para-athlete and licensed mental health counselor. She’s a champion of the LA and Philadelphia Marathons and currently preparing for the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris—all while balancing family life and professional commitments.
2023 Inaugural Team
The inaugural Team Marilyn Bevans debuted in 2023 with four extraordinary women whose impact spans generations and distances. These athletes continue to break barriers and inspire with every mile.
Alisa Harvey
High school All-American, four-time Olympic Trials qualifier, Olympic Marathon Trials qualifier, and four-time winner of the Army Ten-Miler. A career rooted in consistency, speed, and national recognition.
Sika Henry
The first Black woman to be recognized as a professional triathlete (2021). She's a two-time One City Marathon winner and holds the 100K Virginia State Record. Sika's story is one of bold perseverance and visibility in elite multisport competition.
Ingrid Walters
Champion of the 2019 LA Marathon, with additional podium finishes at the Chicago and Orange County Marathons. She's a standout in Masters competition and a fierce competitor across disciplines.
Shawanna White
The 8th fastest American-born Black female marathoner and the record holder for the most sub-3-hour marathons by a U.S.-born Black woman. A true model of resilience and excellence.
Team Marilyn Bevans
Honoring Legacy. Celebrating Excellence. Connecting Generations.
Team Marilyn Bevans was created to honor the groundbreaking legacy of Marilyn Bevans, the first U.S.-born African American woman to run a sub-3-hour marathon. In 1975, she made history at the Boston Marathon with a time of 2:55:52 and paved the way for generations of Black women athletes.
Each year, the Black Unicorn Marathoners recognize a group of outstanding runners whose stories and achievements reflect Marilyn’s strength, grace, and lasting influence. Through this team, we celebrate excellence, connect across generations, and uplift Black women on one of the world’s most prestigious stages.