Running--State of the Sport

George and I discuss the biggest wins and most unexpected surprises of the first half of the Tokyo World Championships, then turn our attention to Jeannie Rice. By several measures, she is the world's best marathon runner.Rice is the first person known to have won her age group in all 7 World Marathon Majors. In six of those, she beat the first male in the age group.Her scores in the respected Age-Sex Graded Calculator, also put her atop almost all marathon performers.In this podcast, Rice describes how her astounding age-group success came 30 years after she began with the goal of losing five pounds. Her singular skill: She hasn't slowed down during those 3 decades.How? Rice laughs and says she doesn't know. Then she talks about how she has maintained a training regimen of 50 miles/week for 40 years ... plus a little more when building up to her several-times-a-year marathons. If nothing else, Rice stands as a prime example of consistent, dedicated training--week in, and week out. At her first World Masters Track Championships in Sweden in 2024, Rice won six gold meals, from 800 meters on the track to the half-marathon on the roads. Next year's World Masters meet in South Korea, where she was born, will serve as strong motivation for 2026. And then? Rice is already looking forward to turning 80 in 2028, so she can take aim on another set of age-group running records.For more about Rice, visit JeannieRiceRuns.com.WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT"Use your smartphone to download our podcast from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport."With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links.AppleSpotifyAudiblePandoraI Heart RadioYouTube"Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels."Run Long, Run Healthy" is a weekly newsletter focused on the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners. It was launched by Amby in 2021, and is now edited by Brady Holmer, exercise physiologist and 2:24 marathon runner.

Ben Rosario has done a bit of everything in running, often with an entrepreneurial spirit. As a professional runner for a decade leading up to 2010, Rosario achieved a marathon PR of 2:18:55. For several years, he trained with the highly respected Hansons Brooks team in Detroit. After that, he opened a retail running store in St. Louis, where he had grown up, and then jumped into his biggest project to date. In 2012 his wife and 1-year-old daughter moved to Flagstaff, AZ, to begin the Northern Arizona Elite training group. The team was soon sponsored by Hoka, and has played a significant role in USA distance running ever since. Runners from NAZ Elite have scored ten top 10 finishes in World Marathon Majors. Biggest victory? In 2020 Aliphine Tuliamuk won the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in Atlanta.Rosario left his leadership role at NAZ Elite a year ago. In this podcast, we learned that he and family have recently moved to Phoenix, where he has taken a job as a private school teacher of sixth- and seventh-graders.He and several business partners have formed a team to organized a unique new approach to marathon running. It's called The Marathon Project, and will be held for the first time in mid-December in Chandler, AZ, just outside Phoenix.The Marathon Project is actually two marathons on two days. The first, on a Saturday, aims to present a concierge-like, high-service event to all entrants. They will be treated like elite athletes with pacers, special water bottle placements, and easy start-line access. All this on a super flat/fast 4-lap course in conditions likely to be cool and low-humidity.The next day these Saturday finishers will be able to watch a professional marathon, with $40,000 in cash prizes, on the same loop course. For more from Ben Rosario, you'll find him here on X. WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT"Use your smartphone to download our podcast from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport."With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links.AppleSpotifyAudiblePandoraI Heart RadioYouTube"Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels."Run Long, Run Healthy" is a weekly newsletter focused on the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners. It was launched by Amby in 2021, and is now edited by Brady Holmer, exercise physiologist and 2:24 marathon runner.

The recent USATF National Championship Meet in Eugene was outright spectacular in all ways. It even had action off the track, as well as sensational races on the Hayward Stadium oval.More than anything else, everyone's talking about one middle-distance event already being called the "greatest of all time" by many observers. Amby and George dissect that race, from start to finish.The other races, from 100 meters to 10,000 meters, were nearly as breathtaking. We discuss the ones that most impressed us.WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT"Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport."With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links.AppleSpotifyAudiblePandoraI Heart RadioYouTube"Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels."Run Long, Run Healthy" is a weekly newsletter focused on the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners. It was launched by Amby in 2021, and is now edited by Brady Holmer, exercise physiologist and 2:24 marathon runner.

This week at “Running: State of the Sport,” George and I decided to skip the usual interview guest so we could spend more time on some really big and important recent news. We start, of course, with the just revealed doping offense of 2:09:56 Chicago Marathon (2024) winner Ruth Chepngetich.We also discuss and analyze: Faith Kipyegon’s “Breaking4” effort; Beatrice Chebet’s new world record for 5000 meters (13:58.06); the incredible high level of men’s 1500 meter/mile racing; and the results of the recent Western States 100-Mile.WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT"Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport."With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links.AppleSpotifyAudiblePandoraI Heart RadioYouTube"Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels."Run Long, Run Healthy" is a weekly newsletter focused on the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners. It was launched by Amby in 2021, and is now edited by Brady Holmer, exercise physiologist and 2:24 marathon runner.

In our new podcast, Rich Kenah, CEO of the Atlanta Track Club, discusses the upcoming Peachtree 10K, the Grand Slam Track series, and the trials and tribulations of hosting a U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, as Atlanta did so sensationally in 2020. Kenah is a past Olympian at 800 meters, and a former athlete agent, who once worked with Michael Jordan, the basketball star when he wasn't organizing track meets, or ironing out details of runner contracts.Also, George and Amby predict the Faith Kipyegon Breaking4 outcome, and their favorite in the Western States 100, both of which will take place in just a day or two.Learn more about the Atlanta Track Club here.Watch Kipyegon's Breaking4 attempt Thursday, June 26, here. Live and free on YouTube. It's scheduled to take place at 1:15 p.m. East Coast time. (That could change if Paris weather is not optimal.) Western States will also be covered live and free on YouTube for 14+ hours Saturday, June 28, beginning at 8 a.m. East Coast Time. Here.WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT"Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport."With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links.AppleSpotifyAudiblePandoraI Heart RadioYouTube"Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels."Run Long, Run Healthy" is a weekly newsletter focused on the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners. It was launched by Amby in 2021, and is now edited by Brady Holmer, exercise physiologist and 2:24 marathon runner.

Thomas Panek is blind, a frequent marathoner, and President and CEO of Lighthouse Guild, a national nonprofit providing services to the visually impaired. Panek is the first person with vision loss to lead Lighthouse Guild.In addition to running marathons tethered to human guide runners, he has finished the New York City Half Marathon with a team of guide dogs. He is also working with Google engineers to develop a phone app that can help the blind "see" the road and various obstacles around them.In this podcast, Panek got George's attention by talking about "blind baseball"--a sport George is eager to witness. Amby was drawn to Panek's comments about how running can be especially powerful at improving the independence and mental health of physically challenged individuals. Learn more about Thomas Panek and Lighthouse Guild here.WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT"Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport."With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links.AppleSpotifyAudiblePandoraI Heart RadioYouTube"Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels."Run Long, Run Healthy" is a weekly newsletter focused on the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners. It was launched by Amby in 2021, and is now edited by Brady Holmer, exercise physiologist and 2:24 marathon runner.

David Roche is producer of one of the world’s most popular podcasts, “Some Work, All Play,” with his cohost and wife, Megan. He’s also a contender to win the Western States 100 Miler at the end of June. That’s a rare combination.His back story is even more amazing. A little more than a year ago, Roche was seriously injured when struck by a car while bicycling a favorite road near Boulder, CO. At that time, the Duke Law School grad and ultramarathon coach had never even attempted a 100-mile. But last summer he broke a longstanding course record in the Leadville Trail 100, and several months later scored a convincing win (in torrid temps) in the Javelina 100.A fan of “Hamilton” the musical (“I’m not givin’ away my shot”) and Simone Biles (“F___ around and find out”), Roche professes to believe that almost everyone’s “amazing” and should reach high for their personal goals. Megan is both his coach, a champion ultra runner on her own, and an M.D. and PhD graduate from Stanford University. Every week, their pod covers the latest research findings about running, as they attempt to “science the sh__” out of endurance performance.You can learn more about David & Megan Roche at their SWAPrunning.com website, or at David's Instagram page.David's quest to win Western States has been chronicled here in a YouTube series by video producer Cody Bare.Key Sections Of The Podcast0:00Introduction to David Roche: The Rise of an Ultra Runner10:33David's Background: Life, Family, and Coaching13:43The Dynamic Duo: David and Megan Roche16:47The Birth of a Podcast: Authenticity and Popularity19:44Language and Honesty: The Explicit Nature of the Podcast22:37Uplifting Messages: The Importance of Kindness25:55Science vs. Intuition: Balancing Training Approaches28:42Training Insights: The Art of Adaptation31:44Overcoming Challenges: The Impact of a Serious Accident34:39Life Lessons: Embracing Mortality and Racing37:43The Athletic Journey: From Football to Ultra Running38:46The Journey to Natural Running40:13Genetics and Athletic Performance43:01Rapid Rise in Ultra Running47:35Mental Resilience and Self-Confidence51:32The Competitive Landscape of Ultra Running54:28Key Factors for Success at Western States56:58Reflections on the Evolution of Running01:01:09The State of the Sport of Running01:03:53Wishes for the FutureWHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT"Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport."With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links.AppleSpotifyAudiblePandoraI Heart RadioYouTube"Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels."Run Long, Run Healthy" is a weekly newsletter focused on the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners. It was launched by Amby in 2021, and is now edited by Brady Holmer, exercise physiologist and 2:24 marathon runner.

In this episode, we chat with Alistair Cragg, coach of the highly successful Puma Elite Running team based in the Research Triangle of North Carolina. Cragg was a 3-time Irish Olympian with a lifetime best of 13:03 for 5000 meters. His wife and co-coach, Amy Hastings Cragg, represented the U.S. in the 2016 Olympic Marathon after winning the Olympic Marathon Trials that year. In February, 2024, Puma runner Fiona O'Keeffe won the Marathon Trials in Orlando in her very first marathon (she qualified with a fast half-marathon time. In early 2025, Puma runners continued to excel on the roads. At the USA Half Marathon Championships in Atlanta, both Taylor Roe and Alex Maier took the individual titles. Roe subsequently ran an eye-popping 49:53 in the Cherry Blossom 10-Mile, while Maier won the Dusseldorf Marathon in 2:08:33.Meanwhile O'Keeffe has healed from the injury that sidelined her at the Paris Olympics, and is training hard again. In our conversation with Alistair Cragg, he said that he could see her getting down to 2:15 in the marathon.Podcast segments include:Introduction to Alistair Cragg01:26Life as a Co-Coach and Family Man04:41Building the Puma Elite Running Team06:10Spotlight on Fiona O'Keeffe12:16Challenges at the Paris Olympics19:05The Future of Puma Athletes25:31Fiona's Journey and Team Dynamics27:38Success of Male Athletes in Dusseldorf28:45Alex Maier's Potential and Training Philosophy31:27The Impact of Shoe Technology on Performance36:07Balancing Training and Injury Prevention39:56Training Philosophy and Building Strength46:25The State of Distance Running49:44Puma is now claiming to have ⁠the world's fastest running shoe.⁠ Its athletes appear to be equally fast.For more about the Puma Elite runners, check out ⁠PumaEliteRunning.com⁠ and follow the team on ⁠Instagram.WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT"Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport."With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links.AppleSpotifyAudiblePandoraI Heart RadioYouTube"Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels."Run Long, Run Healthy" is a weekly newsletter focused on the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners. It was launched by Amby in 2021, and is now edited by Brady Holmer, exercise physiologist and 2:24 marathon runner.

In this episode of "Running: State of the Sport," Lisa Weidenbach Rainsberger reflects on her Boston Marathon win 40 years ago in 1985. She also traces the amazing arc of her running career from All American swimmer to college track star to youthful marathon standout.Lisa is widely known for her three consecutive fourth-place finishes in the Olympic Trials Marathon, but she doesn’t shed any tears over these disappointments. Instead, she celebrates the many positive aspects of her long racing and coaching career. She also discusses how she and her daughter, Katie, negotiated a healthy mother-daughter, coach-athlete relationship. This is a big story in running now, due to the highly publicized Ingebrigtsen family lawsuit in Norway.Some highlights moments in the podcast00:00Celebrating a Marathon Legend10:00Lisa's Journey: From Swimming to Running13:20The Boston Marathon Experience16:13Olympic Trials and Career Highlights19:02Transitioning from Swimming to Running22:20Coaching Insights and Modern Training25:04The Evolution of Running Technology28:04Reflections on Female Sports and Future Aspirations51:07Lisa Rainsberger: A Journey Through Running53:21Coaching Dynamics: The Parent-Child Relationship in Sports56:13WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT"Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport."With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links.AppleSpotifyAudiblePandoraI Heart RadioYouTube"Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels."Run Long, Run Healthy" is a weekly newsletter focused on the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners. It was launched by Amby in 2021, and is now edited by Brady Holmer, exercise physiologist and 2:36 marathon runner.

In this episode of the podcast "Running: State of the Sport," hosts Amby Burfoot and George Hirsch interview John Cahill, a remarkable centenarian runner who shares his inspiring journey from starting to run at age 62 to completing marathons in his 70s and 80s. He ran a 3:05 marathon at 72 and continued to race into his 90s.Cahill discusses his early life, health challenges, and the joy of running, emphasizing the importance of staying active and engaged in various activities. His philosophy of 'keep moving' resonates throughout the conversation. Cahill offers valuable insights into aging, motivation, and living a full life. "I enjoy almost everything that I do," he says. "I have led a charmed life."Key Points (minutes into Cahill interview)00:00Introduction to John Cahill: A Centenarian Runner03:03John's Journey into Running06:01Overcoming Health Challenges09:05Marathon Achievements and Training Regimen12:09Early Life and Sports Background14:55Military Service and Its Impact18:00Transition from Law to Ski Lodge Owner20:57Reflections on Aging and Motivation23:50Travel Adventures and Life Philosophy27:00Final Thoughts and Wishes for the FutureWHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT"Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport."With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links.AppleSpotifyAudiblePandoraI Heart RadioYouTube"Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels."Run Long, Run Healthy" is a weekly newsletter focused on the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners. It was launched by Amby in 2021, and is now edited by Brady Holmer, exercise physiologist and 2:36 marathon runner.

In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Bobbi Gibb, the first woman to run the Boston Marathon, in 1966. She shares her experiences of training, the journey to Boston, and the emotional impact of crossing the finish line, all while challenging societal norms and advocating for women's rights in sports. Gibb also discusses her journey beyond running--including her artistic endeavors and the challenges she faced as a woman in various fields. Bobbi always emphasizes the importance of individual passion and the need for a peaceful, cooperative world.Podcast Chapters (indicated times from beginning of Gibb Interview)00:00Introduction to a Trailblazer01:05Bobby's Early Years and Running Journey02:15The 1965 Boston Marathon Experience07:05Facing Rejection and Finding Motivation15:20The Decision to Run in 196617:23The Journey to Boston21:16The Marathon Experience Begins25:00Crossing the Finish Line and Its Impact30:37Breaking Barriers: Bobbi Gibb's Historic Run35:22The Press and Public Reaction: A New Era for Women38:17Persistence and Recognition: Bobbi's Continued Impact42:56Art and Legacy: Bobbi's Sculptures and Contributions47:45Facing Discrimination: Bobbi's Journey Beyond Running53:36A Vision for the Future: Bobbi's Hopes for HumanityWHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT"Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport."With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links.AppleSpotifyAudiblePandoraI Heart RadioYouTube"Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels."Run Long, Run Healthy" is a weekly newsletter focused on the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners. It was launched by Amby in 2021, and is now edited by Brady Holmer, exercise physiologist and 2:36 marathon runner.

In this episode, we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Bill Rodgers's first Boston Marathon win in 1975. Bill reflects on his early struggles, the pivotal moments that reignited his passion for running, and the significance of community in the sport. In particular, he discusses his memorable 1975 Boston Marathon victory, the evolution of marathon running, and the challenges he faced during his Olympic journey. He also shares personal anecdotes about his experiences with runners like Frank Shorter and Alberto Salazar, his current running, and the critical role of friendship among all runners, young and old. Key Sections IncludeIntroduction to Bill RodgersBill's Early Life and Running JourneyThe Comeback: From Quitting to WinningThe 1975 Boston Marathon VictoryOlympic Disappointment and ResilienceThe King of the Roads: Bill's LegacyTraining Regimens and StrategiesReflections on the 1980 Olympic BoycottMemories of Alberto SalazarThe Duel in the Sun: A Race to RememberThe Journey of a Running EntrepreneurThe Drive to Keep RunningHow to Run the Boston Marathon CourseThe State of Running TodayBill's Fairy Godmother Wishes for the FutureTo learn more about Bill Rodgers, visit his website at ⁠https://www.billrodgersrunningcenter.com/⁠WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT"Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport."With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links.AppleSpotifyAudiblePandoraI Heart RadioYouTube"Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels."Run Long, Run Healthy" is a weekly newsletter focused on the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners. It was launched by Amby in 2021, and is now edited by Brady Holmer, exercise physiologist and 2:36 marathon runner.

In this engaging podcast episode, Jackie Gaughan, a rising star in the marathon running scene, shares her journey, insights, and experiences in the sport. From her impressive performance at the 2024 California International Marathon to her reflections on the Olympic Trials, Gaughan (just 25) discusses her training strategies, the balance between her running career and a full-time job, and the influences that have shaped her as an athlete. She also addresses the state of women's marathon running and her aspirations for the future, including her preparation for this spring’s Boston Marathon. Learn more about Gaughan on her World Athletics profile page. KEY POINTS IN THE INTERVIEW 00:00 Introduction to Jackie Gaughan 03:01 Jackie's Impressive Performance at CIM 06:01 Training Insights and Fueling Strategies 08:56 Reflections on the Olympic Trials 12:06 Balancing Running and a Full-Time Career 14:45 Coaching and Training Philosophy 18:00 Sponsorship and Investment in Running 21:02 Influences and Inspirations in Running 24:04 Transitioning to the Marathon 26:51 Preparing for the Boston Marathon 29:54 The State of the Sport and Personal Aspirations WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT" Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport." With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links. Apple Spotify Audible Pandora I Heart Radio YouTube "Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels. "Run Long, Run Healthy" is a weekly newsletter focused on the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners. It was launched by Amby in 2021, and is now edited by Brady Holmer, exercise physiologist and 2:26 marathon runner.

In this episode of Running State of the Sport, hosts Amby Burfoot and George Hirsch chat with Ray Flynn, a former elite miler and current athlete manager. They discuss Flynn's extensive career in athletics, his experiences at the Olympics, the evolution of athlete management, and the current state of doping in the sport.  Flynn shares insights on the upcoming (Feb. 8) Milrose Games, the significance of the Wanamaker Mile, and his hopes for the future of track and field. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration among athletes, coaches, and managers, as well as the need for transparency in doping.  Key Time Points In Podcast Introduction to Ray Flynn's Career 08:38 Early Influences and Transition to Running 11:29 Scholarship and Cultural Transition to the US 13:59 NCAA vs European Club System 14:34 Competing with the Best Milers 17:36 Olympic Experiences and Expectations 19:29 Greatest Miler of All Time 21:50 Becoming an Athlete Manager 23:41 Managing Relationships in Athletics 25:29 Deena Kastor and Successful Partnerships 27:35 Doping in Sports and Manager Responsibility 31:08 Paris Olympics and Managing Podium Finishers 34:07 Michael Johnson's Grand Slam Track 36:56 Milrose Games: Insights from a Meet Director 40:02 Comparing Armory and Madison Square Garden 41:58 Inviting Jakob Ingebrigtsen to the Wanamaker Mile 44:05 The Mile vs 1500 Meters Debate 45:35 State of the Sport: Positives and Negatives 51:00 Fairy Godmother Wishes for the Sport 52:44 You can learn more about Flynn's primary business, Flynn Sports Management, here. WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT" Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport." With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links. Apple Spotify Audible Pandora I Heart Radio YouTube "Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels. "Run Long, Run Healthy" is Amby’s weekly newsletter with the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners.

In this episode, hosts Amby Burfoot and George Hirsch talk with Edwin Moses, a legendary figure in track and field. During his competitive career, he won 122 consecutive 400 meter hurdles races--a streak that lasted almost 10 years, and is unlikely ever to be beaten. The conversation includes Moses's significant contributions to sports beyond the track, including anti-doping efforts and social change through the Laureus World Sports Academy. Moses shares personal insights on competition, training, and overcoming challenges, while also reflecting on the current state of athletics and the future of the sport. Key moments in the podcast: The Legacy of Edwin Moses 07:20 Reliving the Glory: The Documentary Experience 10:18 A Serious Film: Insights from the Documentary 13:16 The Journey of a Champion: Edwin's Early Life 16:09 The Evolution of Track and Field: A Personal Perspective 19:00 The Science of Hurdling: Technique and Strategy 22:04 The Anti-Doping Movement: Edwin's Advocacy 25:17 The Contrast of Eras: Modern Athletes vs. Edwin Moses 35:24 The Long Road to Clean Sports 39:02 Current State of Doping in Athletics 42:34 The Impact of Laureus on Social Change 48:00 The Future of Track and Field 51:38 The Role of the IOC in Athletics 54:28 Reflections on Jimmy Carter 57:35 Overcoming Personal Challenges 01:03:21 The State of Running and Athletics WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT" Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport." With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links. Apple Spotify Audible Pandora I Heart Radio YouTube "Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels. "Run Long, Run Healthy" is Amby’s weekly newsletter with the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners.

In this conversation, Susanna Sullivan reviews the highs and lows of her running in 2024. This includes missing the Olympic Marathon Trials in February due to an injury and Covid ... then bouncing back in October with a big marathon PR of 2:21:56 in Chicago. Sullivan has been improving steadily for a handful of years, but that Chicago performance catapulted her to the uppermost rungs of American marathon running. She'll begin her 2025 season in a couple of weeks in the Aramco Houston Half Marathon before racing an as-yet-undisclosed spring marathon. She's also seriously focused on the Tokyo World Championships Marathon in September. Here, she discusses her daily life as a teacher, her training regimen, and the importance of balancing short and long-distance races. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Susanna Sullivan's Journey 04:44 The Chicago Marathon Breakthrough 10:54 Training Philosophy and Future Goals 13:53 Balancing Short and Long Distance Racing 19:21 High School and College Running Experience 24:20 Post-College Running and Coaching Dynamics 31:47 Training Secrets and Cross-Training Insights 37:25 State of the Sport and Integrity Issues 41:55 Wishes for the Future

Daniel Romanchuk is one of the world's top wheelchair racers. This fall, he won the New York City Marathon and, a week later, the BAA Boston Half Marathon. He set a course record in the latter event. In August, Romanchuk entered 5 events in the Paris Paralympics, winning gold in the 5000 meters and bronze in the marathon. Born with spina bifida--a not-fully-formed spine--Romanchuk spent his early years trying to keep up with two older siblings. He enrolled in an adaptive sports program in his hometown, Baltimore, at age 5, and has been pursuing one sport (or many) ever since. In this podcast interview, he talks about:  # his summer and fall of races # why he did his first marathon at age 14 # how wheelchair athletes train # why so many of them are located, as he is, at the University of Illinois/Champaign # how wheelchair racing has evolved during his years in the sport # ways he hopes to make racing wheelchairs less expensive and more accessible # and much more WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT" Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport."With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links. Apple Spotify Audible Pandora I Heart Radio YouTube "Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels. "Run Long, Run Healthy" is Amby’s weekly newsletter with the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners.

Ted Metellus is race director of the TCS New York City Marathon. In many ways, he’s a miracle maker. How else do you get 50,000+ runners from midtown Manhattan to Staten Island, and then back again (on foot) to finish in Central Park? Especially when they come from so many different countries and speak different languages? Metellus seems almost born to the position he holds. Raised in New York City with Haitian-heritage parents, he’s big, bold, always smiling, and details-obsessed. He has also run 44 half marathons and two NYC Marathons, so he knows the needs of midpack runners as well as the elites. In this podcast he discusses: # how he went to the recent Chicago Marathon but didn’t see the race’s epic new women’s world record. Why? He had to fly back to NYC for the Staten Island Half. # a few tricks that the NYC Marathon has learned from other big races # what the NY Road Runners are doing to enhance diversity in the organization and the sport # what new World Marathon Majors race(s) we might be seeing soon # why everyone seems to be running these days (and trying to get entries into the most popular marathons) # why he enjoys running road races himself # and much more WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT" Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport." With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links. Apple Spotify Audible Pandora I Heart Radio YouTube "Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels. "Run Long, Run Healthy" is Amby’s weekly newsletter with the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners.

Some think Jessica McClain was the "tough luck kid" of 2024. After all, she finished 4th in both the Olympic Marathon Trials and the Olympic Track Trials 10,000. And fourth is the worst position, right? McClain herself doesn't see things that way.  Excited about her life, her work, and her running, she sees the past 10 months as evidence that she's on a great path: happy, healthy, running strong.  And she thinks it's a sustainable path that could carry her all the way to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.  McClain, who recently won the USATF 10K Road Championship, will race next in the New York City Marathon on November 3.  In this podcast, she discusses her training to get ready for New York. It's going great. She also talks about: # Her last-minute trip to the Paris Olympics when she was called to be a possible alternate. She didn't know for whom, or even for which event--10,000 or the marathon. It was an unfortunate and little discussed situation for all involved. # Her early love for running--she started when she was 12--and how she developed into a 4-time Footlocker XC finalist as a high schooler.  # Her move from Phoenix to Seattle to become a pro runner after graduating from Stanford. And why that didn't work out so well. # The many life changes she experienced during several Covid years, and how they eventually brought her back to her essential love of running. But not quickly. # Why so many top women runners seem to be better after they have taken a few years away from the sport ... for whatever reason. # The fulfillment of working for several nonprofits that support fostering children and adopting dogs. # And much more. You can learn more about Jessica McClain by following her on Instagram.  If you'd like to support her work on behalf of foster kids and dog adoptions, visit the Love Up Foundation and/or the Love Pup Foundation. WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT" Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport." With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links. Apple Spotify Audible Pandora I Heart Radio YouTube "Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels." Run Long, Run Healthy" is Amby’s weekly newsletter with the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners.

Carey Pinkowski is the longest serving race director of a World Marathon Major race, having taken the helm at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon way back in 1990. Before that, he was an elite runner with personal bests ranging from 4:01 in the mile to 2:20:43 in the marathon. This year's Chicago is just three weeks away on Sunday, October 13. As always it will feature a big and star-studded field of runners. In his three-plus decades with the Chicago Marathon, Pinkowski has become known for putting on a super-fast race for elite competitors, and a super-efficient race for midpackers. Last year, Kelvin Kiptum set the marathon world record in Chicago, running 2:00:35. He covered the second half of the distance in an astounding 59:47. This year's Chicago is expected to host more than 50,000 starters--the most ever. They come for the big city vibe, the fast tour of many neighborhoods, and the easy-accessibility of Chicago's loop course with a start and finish in Grant Park on the lakefront.    In this podcast, Pinkowski reflects on: # What he learned in his early years on the job # Some of the best--and most challenging--years of the Chicago Marathon # What runners like best about coming to Chicago and running the urban marathon # Why Chicago has pacers vs other Major Marathons that don't # What he learned from watching Kelvin Kiptum's world-record last year # How he learned about Kiptum's death, and his immediate reactions # And much more You can follow updates from the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Twitter and Instagram. WHERE TO FIND "RUNNING: STATE OF THE SPORT" Use your smartphone to download podcast apps from Apple, Spotify, Pandora, or YouTube Podcasts. Once you've selected your favorite app, search for "running state of the sport."With your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can also listen direct to “Running: State of the Sport” at the below internet links. Apple Spotify Audible Pandora I Heart Radio YouTube "Running: State of the Sport" is brought to you by MarathonHandbook.com and RunLongRunHealthy.com. Marathon Handbook is the world’s leading marathon website, with a special focus on trustworthy running information and free, runner-tested training plans for all ability levels. "Run Long, Run Healthy" is Amby’s weekly newsletter with the newest, most scientific, and most useful training advice for runners.