Zola Budd is a renowned middle-distance and long-distance runner, whose illustrious career has been marked by numerous impressive achievements. At the 1984 Olympic Games, she represented Great Britain in the 3000 metres event, while at the 1992 Olympic Games, she donned the colors of South Africa, again competing in the 3000 metres.
In 1984 and 1985, Budd made headlines by breaking the world record in the women's 5000 metres event, an astonishing feat that cemented her status as a world-class athlete. Her impressive form continued as she won the World Cross Country Championships on two occasions, in 1985 and 1986.
What sets Budd apart from many of her peers is her unconventional approach to training and racing. She is perhaps best known for her preference to run barefoot, a decision that has garnered both praise and criticism throughout her career. Despite this unorthodox approach, Budd has continued to thrive, and since 2008, she has been based in South Carolina, where she has been competing in marathons and ultramarathons.
