If you go to the HMSA 25K this Sunday, November 23, you may be witnessing an American record in the making. Fiona Bayly, one of the most decorated masters runners in the nation, is aiming to set the 25K American Age-Group Record at the 2025 Houston 25K. According to a post on the Houston 25K Facebook page, Bayly already holds five American records in the F55–59 division, and she’s hoping this weekend will be the moment she adds a sixth.
According to the New York USATF website, Bayly’s existing American records are remarkable: 8K road (30:05, set in 2022), 1-hour track (9.27 miles, 2025), 10 miles track (1:04:48, 2025), 15K road (58:55, 2022), and 15K track (1:00:24, 2025). The Houston 25K Facebook post also highlights the depth of her résumé, noting achievements that, while not records, speak to her longevity and dominance, including her 2024 induction into the USATF Masters Long Distance Running Hall of Fame and a 1:24:50 win at the 2024 Masters Half Marathon Championships, where she was named USATF Runner of the Week.
Bayly’s competitive roots run deep. In 2020, she won the F50–54 division at the Chevron Houston Marathon with a 2:55:28. From 2003 to 2019, she represented Team USA in both triathlon and masters road running, earning golds at international championships. Even earlier in her career, she was the 1984 New England Cross Country Champion and set multiple course records across the region.
Her recent form suggests she’s as strong as ever. Bayly claimed the 2023 USATF Masters 12K title for the 55–59 division and won the Masters Half Marathon Championships in Syracuse with a 1:25:03, a performance that earned an impressive 93.83% age-graded score.
Spectators and runners alike can witness her attempt at Sam Houston Park (1000 Bagby St., Houston, TX). Spots are still open to run the 25k, 10 mi, or 5k race click here to register.
