Jogger whose open letter to fat-shamer went viral becomes mag’s first plus size cover girl

The inspirational jogger who told a fat shaming van driver to 'drive into a lamp post' has become Women's Running magazine's first real life plus size model

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by Jessica Anais Rach |
Published on

Lindsey Swift's cutting response to a van driver who heckled her as she jogged along a busy road, went viral last month- garnering over 27,000 shares on Facebook.

The 26-year-old's hilarious and punchy open letter included lines like:

"My fat body has done things that you, hanging out of the window of your babe-magnet white van could only ever dream of. My fat body has been swimming in crystal clear Thai seas that you have probably only ever seen on TV. It has lived in countries you wouldn't dream of visiting and been a part of cultures you are too small minded to appreciate. My fat legs have carried me up mountains on more than one occasion.

“My fat brain speaks languages you probably don't see the point of learning, which is why you spend your time hanging out of van windows since you have nothing better to occupy it with."

Despite forgiving the heckler, she couldn't help to add a little humour, signing off:

"If my fat arse running (quite slowly I might add, I was bloody shattered) offends you and spoils your journey, try driving with your eyes closed, into a lamp post."

It seems Yorkshire-born Lindsey's frustration has struck a chord with women across the country.

Research done by the This Girl Can campaign found two million fewer women than men aged 14 to 40 play sport regularly, because of bad experiences or fear of being judged.

And this is what won her the first cover as a real life plus size model with Women's Running.

Speaking about their decision to feature Lindsey on their cover, Women's Running editor Elizabeth Hufton said:

"Lindsey's story and the response she's had from women around the world shows that women are tired of being judged by their shape and speed when they're out doing the sport they love".

Trainee teacher Lindsey has since been inundated with messages of support, replying on Facebook:

"Wow! Just wanted to say how humbled I am by the reaction I have received to my open letter. I apologise if I miss any messages... There are so many I can't get through them all, and uni work calls. Thanks so much for all the positivity! Go get those goals, people!"

Go Lindsey!

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