Sarah Attar is a trailblazing Saudi Arabian runner who made history in 2012 when she became the first female athlete from Saudi Arabia to compete in the Olympics. Born in California, USA, to a Saudi father and an American mother, Attar grew up with a love for running and a passion for breaking down barriers.
Attar first made headlines in 2012 when she competed in the 800-meter race at the London Olympics. Despite the criticism, Attar’s performance was celebrated by many as a step forward for women’s sports in the kingdom.
After the 2012 Olympics, Attar continued to compete in international running competitions, including the 2013 World Championships in Moscow, where she finished last in her heat but was praised for her determination and sportsmanship. In 2016, Attar competed in the Rio Olympics, where she finished last in her heat but her participation was still a big achievement for Saudi Arabia.
Attar’s success as a runner has been recognized by the international community. She was named as one of Time Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People in the World” in 2013, and has been honored with numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to women’s sports in Saudi Arabia.
Despite the challenges she faced as a female runner, Attar never gave up on her dream of competing at the highest level. Her determination and perseverance have inspired countless young women in Saudi Arabia and around the world to pursue their own athletic goals. Her story is a testament to the power of sports to break down barriers.