Marathon Handbook Podcast

The fall marathon season is already taking shape and Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth are here to break it all down. On this episode of The Running Story, the team runs through the five biggest stories from the past week in running.

In this episode:

The Soweto Marathon prize-money scandal — six months after the November 2025 race, the winners are still owed roughly $15,000, runners-up about $7,000, and the South African government is now threatening to step in. We unpack the broken sanctioning process, why the doping-results excuse fell apart, and the criminal charges that could be coming for the organizers.

Mason Wright runs 1,000 miles on a Utah high school track — 18 days, 13 hours, 11 minutes, roughly 4,000 laps, and only the third person in history to finish the distance on a track. We talk about the mental load, the nerve damage by halfway, and where this fits next to Yiannis Kouros and Ned Brockman.

The fall marathon field is set up early: Sabastian Sawe is officially racing the Berlin Marathon on September 27, Yomif Kejelcha is heading to Valencia on December 2 (with a $1 million-euro world-record bonus on the line), and Jacob Kiplimo is reportedly bound for Chicago. Who are we more excited to watch? Can either of them run sub-2 again without the other one in the race?

A 15-year-old girl dies at the Leiden Half Marathon — and the conversation about minimum age limits in distance running comes roaring back. We get into how she was able to enter a 16+ race, the differences between European and North American bib pickup and ID checks, and why this debate shouldn't need a tragedy to happen.

Sports scientists name the GOATs — a team of 16 researchers, published in Sports Medicine, used Olympic medals, world championship titles, world records, and record longevity to rank running's greatest. Usain Bolt and Faith Kipyegon take the top spots. We debate the men's and women's top five (Bekele, Johnson, Gebrselassie, Nurmi; Dibaba, Fraser-Pryce, Hassan, Ottey), the apples-to-oranges problem of comparing sprinters to marathoners, and the glaring omissions of Eliud Kipchoge and Kelvin Kiptum.

Plus: Jessy's impromptu 5K podium ("Running Revenge Vol. 2"), and a preview of the new Alex Cyr / Alexis podcast dropping into this feed soon.

Jakob Ingebrigtsen is one of the most dominant runners on the planet: two Olympic golds, multiple world championship medals, and five world records by age 25. He's also coming back from February Achilles surgery and rebuilding toward a season that could include three more world record attempts.

Jessy Carveth sits down with Jakob for a candid, gear-nerd-friendly conversation about how he's actually training right now, what he really thinks of the "Norwegian Method" label, and how he uses lactate testing and elliptical work to keep VO2 high when he can't run. Jakob also breaks down one of the biggest shoe rotations in the sport, his hands-on role developing the Nike Victory spike that helped him break world records, and the new Coros watch he co-designed as part of the Fearless campaign.

And yes, we get into the Josh Kerr question. How real is the rivalry? Are they friends? Would they ever line up at a marathon together? Jakob answers all of it, plus opens up about why he sees himself debuting at 26.2 in his late 30s and what fearless actually means to him.

In this episode:

• Inside the Copenhagen Marathon weekend (and his brother's 2:29 debut)
• Why Jakob wants to wait until his late 30s for the marathon
• What the "Norwegian Method" actually is — and isn't
• Lactate testing, intensity control & avoiding the most common training mistake
• How he used 14x3 minute elliptical intervals to maintain fitness post-surgery
• A full tour of his Nike shoe rotation: Pegasus, Vomero, Structure, Alphafly, Streakfly & Victory
• Working hands-on with Nike R&D on the spike that broke world records
• The truth behind the Josh Kerr rivalry
• Whether a Jakob vs. Kerr marathon showdown could ever happen
• The new Coros watch & the "Fearless" campaign
• What's next for Jakob the rest of 2026

It's the May Mailbag — and Michael, Alex and Katelyn are getting personal. With their spouses conveniently out of the house, the three of them dig into what it's actually like to be in a relationship with a runner: pace mismatches, "morning person" catfishes, who gets the long-run slot on Sunday, and what happens when your non-running partner slowly, accidentally becomes a runner.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:Lagoon pillows help us sleep better, so we run better. Want to try? You can save 15% with code MARATHON. Go to https://LagoonSleep.com/marathonhandbook and take the 2-minute sleep quiz to find your match.

Alex also previews his new podcast with his fiancée Alexis — tentatively called "For Better or For Worse" — which follows the two of them training for very different goals (Alex chasing a fast Valencia half; Alexis chasing her first-ever 10K) on the way to their wedding day. Katelyn shares her first non-running vacation in years (Hawaii — and yes, she still snuck in a three-hour long run), and Michael confesses to running shifts with Kelly.

Then into the mailbag:

— Tibo (36, started running in 2023) asks if there's any science on how much room a late-starter has to keep improving. Spoiler: a lot.— Adam is taking on Endure 24, a 24-hour trail race in the UK, and wants to know what to eat for an entire day of running. Katelyn breaks down her ultra fueling playbook (grilled cheese, quesadillas, Coke and broth all make appearances).— A listener pushes back on a previous comment about London Marathon qualifying times — the team clarifies what they actually meant and pitches a two-day London Marathon format.— Gavin wants a sub-2:50 marathon plan. The crew talks volume, threshold work, periodization and how to graduate from the sub-3 plan.

Plus: a teaser of Jessy Carveth's new interview with Jakob Ingebrigtsen, dropping later this week.

Got a question or comment? Email podcast@marathonhandbook.com — or send a voice memo for the upcoming summer voicemail mailbag.

Timestamps

(02:06) Katelyn's first non-running vacation in years(06:25) Buying super shoes from a Hawaiian beach(09:55) Alex's new podcast with Alexis: "For Better or For Worse"(13:15) Dating a runner vs. dating a non-runner(25:30) Life in a two-runner household(31:30) Whose running takes priority?(35:00) Type A vs Type B runners(40:00) The wedding 5K and the sub-15 curse(46:50) Mailbag: Late-start marathon progression(1:01:00) Mailbag: Fueling for a 24-hour race(1:14:30) Listener feedback on the London Marathon lottery debate(1:24:30) Mailbag: Building a sub-2:50 marathon plan(1:29:00) Jakob Ingebrigtsen interview teaser

Michael and Jessy run through the five most intriguing stories in running this week.

Rachel Entrekin became the first woman to win Cocodona 250 outright, demolishing the overall course record and finishing nearly 10 miles ahead of the next runner. We dig into the body-composition science behind why women keep closing — and surpassing — men at extreme ultra distances, and acknowledge the tragic death reported on course.

Then to Cincinnati: 22-year-old Sophia Dick says she missed a turnoff at the Flying Pig half marathon and accidentally ran her first full in 3:30 alongside Harvey Lewis on his 100th marathon. Locals say the course is impossible to miss. We weigh the heartwarming version against the conspiracy version.

The 2027 London Marathon ballot closed with over 1.3 million entries, nearly 2% of the entire UK population, making a two-day London Marathon feel increasingly inevitable.

French star Jimmy Gressier is going after Mo Farah's One Hour Track World Record on September 4th at the Brussels Diamond League final. We talk pace (67-second laps for an hour), venue, and the strange charm of attrition racing.

And finally: the IOC has reportedly declined to add cross country running to the 2030 Winter Olympics in the French Alps.

Chapters:00:00 Intro: this week's top 5 stories01:26 Rachel Entrekin makes history at Cocodona 25005:40 Sophia Dick "accidentally" runs her first marathon11:18 London Marathon 2027: 1.3 million ballot entries15:10 Jimmy Gressier targets Mo Farah's One Hour Track World Record19:56 Cross country DENIED at the 2030 Winter Olympics23:00 Preview of Next Week

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This episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: https://⁠livemomentous.com

Michael Doyle and Alex Cyr (Katelyn is on a well-earned vacation) reset the Marathon Handbook Super Shoe Power Rankings for Spring 2026. We cover the full overall Top 10, including prototypes, then run a second Top 10 of the most accessible super shoes — the ones you can actually buy.

Previous Power Rankings — Winter 2025 (December)1. Adidas Adios Pro Evo 22. Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 33. ASICS Metaspeed Tokyo Sky / Edge4. Nike Alphafly 35. Saucony Endorphin Elite 26. Adidas Adios Pro 47. ASICS Metaspeed Ray8. On Cloudboom Strike LS9. Adidas Adios Pro Evo 110. New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite 52. Current Power Rankings — Spring 20261. Adidas Adios Pro Evo 32. Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 33. ASICS Development Shoe (ME5 Type One / Type P)4. Adidas Adios Pro Evo 25. ASICS Metaspeed Tokyo Sky / Edge6. Nike Alphafly 47. Adidas Adios Pro Evo 18. ASICS Metaspeed Ray9. On Cloudboom Dev 5 (LS)10. Brooks Hyperion Elite 63. Accessible Top 10 — Spring 2026 (shoes you can actually buy)1. Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 32. ASICS Metaspeed Sky / Edge3. Nike Alphafly 34. Adidas Adios Pro 45. Saucony Endorphin Elite 26. Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 47. Hoka Cielo X1 v3.08. New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite 59. Brooks Hyperion Elite 510. On Cloudboom Strike

Michael and Jessy are back after covering Boston and London, and this week's five stories cover everything from a polarizing youth running debate to one of the most shocking marathon debuts in American history.

In this episode:

An 11-year-old from Indiana, Ben Dick, ran 1:20:14 at the IU Health 500 Festival mini marathon — reportedly the fastest half ever run by a boy his age. He dropped his dad at mile seven. The internet is split. We dig into what happens to these kid phenoms long-term, and why pediatricians (and Jessy's kinesiology background) say the half marathon distance is too much for a developing 11-year-old body.

Sprinter Abby Steiner is suing Puma and Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix, claiming the carbon-plated shoes and spikes she wore caused the foot and Achilles injuries that have kept her off the track since the 2024 Olympic Trials. We unpack the questions this raises about athlete responsibility, sponsor accountability, and how you even quantify a derailed sprinting career.

While the running world was glued to Sebastian Sawe's near-sub-two London Marathon, 25-year-old Vinny Mauri quietly ran 2:05:54 at the Glass City Marathon in Toledo, Ohio — the fastest U.S. marathon debut on record. Before the race he joked that if he didn't break 2:16 he wasn't a real marathoner. He broke the course record by more than 13 minutes. Nobody had heard of him. His Twitter feed is mostly Bitcoin memes. Expect a major brand to scoop him up fast.

Cocodona 250 has kicked off in Arizona — 253 miles from Black Canyon to Flagstaff with 40,000 feet of climbing and a 125-hour cutoff. Courtney Dauwalter is the clear women's favorite (and looking for redemption after dropping out last year), but the field is deep with Rachel Entrekin, Heather Jackson, and surprise headliner Randy Zuckerberg. The men's race is wide open with Jeff Browning, Joe McConaughy, Ryan Clifford, and Adam Kimble all in the mix.

And finally — the running brand quietly dominating the industry isn't Nike, Adidas, or Asics. It's Brooks. Their best quarter ever: 23% global growth, North America up 20%, EMEA up 30%, China up 136%. Eleven straight quarters as the #1 specialty performance running brand in the U.S. Michael shares early thoughts on the unreleased Hyperion Elite 6 (out August), which Jess McClain and Clayton Young raced in Boston.

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New episodes every Monday.

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The two-hour marathon barrier is gone. At the 2026 London Marathon, Sebastian Sawe became the first person ever to run under two hours on a record-eligible course — and Yomif Kejelcha did it too, in his marathon debut.

Outside columnist and Endure author Alex Hutchinson joins Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr and Katelyn Tocci to make sense of it.

We get into:

• Why Hutchinson thinks the shoes (the Adidas Adios Pro Evo 3) are still the biggest single factor — and why Nike has lost its grip on the super-shoe race
• Sawe's astonishing negative split: 60:29 out, 59:01 back, with a final 5K that put him on 1:52 marathon pace
• Whether the marathon is even the same race anymore — and whether "marathon pace" as a training concept is dying
• Norwegian-style threshold blocks vs. classic long marathon-pace work
• Resilience and durability — what they are and how (or whether) you train them
• Bicarb / sodium bicarbonate: the science of why it works, and whether marathoners should bother
• Why drafting "like a zombie" might be the most underrated tactic in distance running
• What's actually possible from here: 1:57? 1:56? Are we further from our potential than we think?
• The recreational-runner takeaways: shoes, fuel, sleep, and what to skip

A wide-ranging, occasionally contrarian conversation about an inflection point that may reshape the sport for the next decade.

📚 Books by Alex Hutchinson:Endure: Mind, Body, and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human PerformanceThe Explorer's Gene

📰 Sweat Science Substack: alexhutchinson.net

Sebastian Sawe just ran 1:59:30 on the streets of London — the first sub-two-hour marathon in history on a sanctioned course. And he wasn't alone. Yomif Kejelcha, in his marathon debut, ran 1:59:41 to make it two sub-2s in a single race. On the women's side, Tigst Assefa lowered her own women's-only world record, with Hellen Obiri running a huge PB just under 2:16 for second.

Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr and Katelyn Tocci recorded this instant reaction from Knees Up on Hackney Road, with Jessy Carveth dialing in live from the finish line media center — including a quick word with Sawe himself before the press conference.

In this episode:

• The moment the media center went silent — and then erupted — as Sawe came around the final bend
• How a 90-second negative split delivered the first official sub-2
• Yomif Kejelcha's astonishing marathon debut and what it means for the next decade of the event
• Tigst Assefa, Hellen Obiri, and the women's race that almost got lost in the sauce
• The Adidas Pro Evo 3: why Adidas held it back from Boston, and what it does to the shoe wars
• Where John Korir's 2:01 in Boston now sits in the conversation
• Athlete vs. shoes vs. nutrition: the Maurten data on Sawe's pre-London block
• Whether the marathon has finally been "figured out" — and what that means for the rest of us
• Boston vs. London as a race weekend, the case for a two-day London in 2027, and why this one race may have just changed the sport

Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth sit down for their full elite preview of the 2026 London Marathon, breaking down the top five storylines ahead of Sunday's race.

Sebastian Sawe and Jacob Kiplimo headline a men's field that Sawe himself says will require a course record to win: 2:01:25, set by the late Kelvin Kiptum in 2024. Kiplimo arrives fresh off a ratified 57:20 half marathon world record in Lisbon and a World Cross Country title in January. Sawe is expected to debut the Adidas Adios Pro Evo 3, setting up a head-to-head super shoe war against Kiplimo's Nike Alphafly 4.

The women's race took a hit when two major names withdrew, but Tigst Assefa (defending champion and women's-only world record holder) and Helen Obiri make it a showdown worth tuning in for: Obiri finally gets her shot at a flat, fast course after a career built on the hills of Boston, New York, and Paris.

In the men's field behind the big two: three former track stars: Yomif Kejelcha, Hagos Gebrhiwet, and Joshua Cheptegei: try to translate their 5K/10K brilliance into 26.2. Cheptegei is still looking to crack the marathon; Kejelcha and Gebrhiwet are both making their debuts.

The British field takes a hit with Emile Cairess withdrawing injured, leaving Mohamed Mohamed, Phil Sesemann, and Patrick Dever to chase Mo Farah's national record of 2:05:11. On the women's side, Eilish McColgan enters with a healthy buildup and a European 10K record (30:07 in Valencia) to her name.

It's London week. Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr and Katelyn Tocci deliver the Marathon Handbook one-stop preview of the 2026 TCS London Marathon: course, elites, weather, the jacket design, shoes, ballot drama, and the looming question of whether London Marathon Events can pull off a two-day "Double London" in 2027.

What's in this episode:

A brief history of London from the 1981 inaugural race (6,255 finishers) through the 1.3 million applicants now fighting for roughly 60,000 spots. Why the ballot has made London the single hardest World Marathon Major for internationals to enter, and how the charity-bib and running-club routes actually work.

A course walkthrough of one of running's great spectacles — the staggered southeast start, the 9:05 elite women's gun, Cutty Sark at mile six, Tower Bridge at the halfway inflection, Canary Wharf, Big Ben, and the jaw-dropping finish down The Mall past Buckingham Palace into St. James's Park.

Weather check: a probable high-40s to low-60s°F day, sunnier than ideal but dry and low humidity. The crew think we're lined up for a Boston-style "no excuses" day and some serious times.

The 2026 New Balance London kit, a.k.a. the "Cheetah Girl" jacket — the crew rate it, debate whether London should have a defined color system, and land on an official Marathon Handbook freshness score.

The Adidas Pro Evo 3 is expected to formally launch in London, likely on the feet of Sebastian Sawe and Tigst Assefa. The shoe wars angle, why Adidas held it back from Boston, and what a "win on the shoe" does for the brand narrative.

The Double London 2027 rumor: reporting out of the UK suggests London Marathon Events is exploring a two-race weekend. The crew debate every format — men/women split, elite/mass split, same weekend vs two seasons — and Michael lands on an elegant Boston-flavored solution: a qualifying race Saturday for performance runners, the iconic lottery mass race Sunday for everyone else.

Predictions and hot takes:

• Will London break the 60,000-finisher barrier for the first time in history?
• Does Sebastian Sawe go sub-2 on the London course?
• Does Tigst Assefa finally take down Paula Radcliffe's 23-year-old course record of 2:15:25?
• Where does Hellen Obiri land on a flat course she has never run before?
• Which brand wins the day — Adidas, Nike, or a dark horse?
• Plus the updated Marathon Handbook World Marathon Majors Power Rankings as of April 22, 2026.

Coverage plan for the weekend:

The crew will be on the ground Thursday through race day. Shakeout run Saturday at 10 AM in Hyde Park (Serpentine loop) — all welcome. Live watch-along Sunday at Knees Up cafe in Hackney, streaming on the Marathon Handbook YouTube channel as a second-screen companion to the broadcast. Instant Reaction podcast drops the moment the race wraps.

Michael Doyle, Katelyn Tocci and Alex Cyr break down the 2026 Boston Marathon just minutes after the finish. This year's race featured two repeat champions, a course record, a slew of American standout performances and so much more. Over 300,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbookFollow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbookLike us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbookFollow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Recorded LIVE at Trident Booksellers on Newbury Street the weekend of the 2026 Boston Marathon.

Michael, Katelyn, and Alex open with a first-hand recap of Alex's chase at a sub-14 elite 5K on Boston weekend — missing shoe bag included — and break down the biggest storylines of race weekend: the deep American elite field, Nike's "Runners Welcome, Walkers Tolerated" Newbury Street stunt, and the quiet disappearance of the traditional Boston expo.

Bobbi Gibb — the first woman to run and finish the Boston Marathon, in 1966, 1967, and 1968 — joins us for an extended conversation about falling in love with the race as a spectator in 1964, driving alone across the country in a VW microbus, the BAA rejection letter that told her women were "physiologically incapable" of running a marathon, hiding in the bushes in Hopkinton in her brother's Bermuda shorts, being embraced by the Wellesley scream tunnel, bleeding through her blisters down Boylston, and meeting Governor Volpe at the finish line in the moment that changed running forever. She also sets the historical record straight, talks about her sculpture now installed at mile zero in Hopkinton, and shares her philosophy of love, truth, and the end of the "war between the sexes."

1968 Boston Marathon champion and Marathon Handbook Editor at Large Amby Burfoot helps guide the conversation, offers a few stories of his own (including how many carbs he took in during his winning run — spoiler: zero), and makes the case that Bobbi may be the most important runner in the history of the marathon.

Then Brooks athlete, 6x Boston Marathon runner, 50K world record holder, and indoor marathon record holder CJ Albertson joins the stage. He walks us through leading Boston for 21 miles in 2021 on his birthday, the homemade plywood sauna he built for $200, putting bricks under his treadmill for downhill simulation, ingesting 120 grams of carbs per hour, why he writes workouts on the fly, and his plan to finally nail the last five miles of Boston on Monday.

The show closes with a listener Q&A covering recovery, ideal training partners, mid-race voice memos, rest days, what a great spouse does during marathon training, and favorite pre-race dinners.

It's Boston Marathon week and we are absolutely fired up. In this mega preview episode, Michael Doyle, Katelyn Tocci, and Alex Cyr break down everything you need to know about the 130th Boston Marathon: from navigating race-day logistics and the expo, to pacing the notoriously tricky course, to our boldest hot takes and elite race storylines.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:

Lagoon pillows help us sleep better, so we run better. Want to try? You can save 15% with code MARATHON. Go to https://LagoonSleep.com/marathonhandbook and take the 2-minute sleep quiz to find your match.

Whether you're toeing the start line in Hopkinton, cheering from Wellesley, or watching from home, this is your complete guide to Marathon Monday.

🗓️ Marathon Handbook Boston Weekend Events

We have a packed weekend of events — here's what's happening and how to find us:

• Friday evening: Live podcast recording at the BAA Fan Fest at City Hall Plaza, 6:30 PM. Come watch us improvise live — no prep, pure chaos.
• Saturday morning: Alex races the B.A.A. 5K at 8:00 AM in a stacked elite field (yes, really — and yes, he'll be lapped).
• Saturday evening: Our Mile Zero live event at Trident Booksellers & Cafe on Newbury Street, doors at 5:00 PM. Now beyond sold out! Special guest: elite American runner CJ Albertson, plus prizes, giveaways, and a mystery second guest who is an absolute Boston Marathon legend.
• Sunday morning: Free community shakeout run at the Boston Marathon finish line on Boylston Street, 10:00 AM. No sign-up required — just show up. Look for Katelyn in her blue 2003 Boston Marathon jacket.
• Monday: Our live Watch Along Show streams on YouTube and at marathonhandbook.com all morning. Join us from the Trident Booksellers venue or watch from home. We'll be doing live updates, real-time coverage, and our Instant Reaction podcast immediately after the race.

Patriots Day is almost here — and Michael and Jessy are in full Boston Marathon mode.

In this episode, they break down the five biggest stories heading into the 130th Boston Marathon on Monday, April 20th, before laying out their bold picks for the men's and women's race winners and top American finishers.

Story 1 – Kipruto vs. Korir: The Headliner MatchupPast champion Benson Kipruto (Boston 2021, Chicago 2022, Tokyo 2024, New York 2024) returns to face defending champion John Korir in what shapes up as the defining men's storyline. Their personal bests are separated by just eight seconds, but as Michael and Jessy discuss, Boston is never won on speed alone — Newton Hills, race tactics, and championship experience are just as decisive.

Story 2 – Can Anyone Beat the Defending Women's Champion?The defending women's champion is the heavy favourite, but with her fiercest rival Helen Obiri absent from the field this year, the dynamic shifts. Does she need that neck-and-neck rivalry to bring out her best? Jessy breaks down the closest challengers on paper, including Irene Cheptai and Worknesh Edesa, and why Emily Sisson is the American name to watch.

Story 3 – Top American Men: Who Steps Up with Manz Out?American record holder Conner Mantz is a DNS due to injury — a big blow, but the American men's field still has plenty to get excited about. Michael and Jessy spotlight Zha Alby (2:05:45 at Houston this year and ascending fast), Clayton Young (crashing into Boston off an abbreviated build but motivated by a fresh move to Brooks), and breakout names Ryan Ford and CJ Albertson — who'll be joining the team at their live Saturday event on Newbury Street.

Story 4 – Emily Sisson, Fiona O'Keefe & a Stacked American Women's FieldIs this finally Emily Sisson's signature Boston moment? Or does Fiona O'Keefe — Michael's sleeper pick and someone who was genuinely in contention to win New York last fall — steal the spotlight? The pair also make the case for Susanna Sullivan (low-key, deadly), Jess McClain (due a big day after a brutal run of bad luck), and the ever-reliable Sarah Hall.

Story 5 – The Dark Horse: Nicholas Kipkorir's Marathon DebutJessy's personal favourite storyline. The 27-year-old Kenyan ran 58:08 at the Lisbon Half Marathon this year — second behind Jacob Kiplimo's world record — translating theoretically to a 2:01:12 marathon equivalent. He's never run a marathon. Boston is his debut. Will his track speed and raw talent carry him, or will the Newton Hills claim another rookie? Either way, this is the subplot to watch.

Come to our LIVE SHOW in Boston! Join Alex, Katelyn and Michael and some very special guests, + giveaways and prizes!📅 Saturday, April 18, at 6:45 p.m📍 Trident Booksellers & Café, 338 Newbury Street 🎟️ It’s free to attend, but make sure to RSVP now, as space is limited: https://forms.gle/sFk28hfMYznrsNxMA

Five big stories this week — strap in.

Des Linden | Marathon des SablesThe 2018 Boston Marathon champion finished 3rd overall at the 2026 Marathon des Sables, a six-day, 250+ km stage race through the Sahara. Her finishing time: 30 hours, 16 minutes, 32 seconds. Even wilder: this was only her second-ever trail ultramarathon, and one of the stages was 100K — more than double her previous longest run ever. Winner Mary-Line Nahon of France took her third MdS title in just under 26 hours. Des lands in Boston next week to pace her husband. No rest for the wicked.

Clarke Reynolds | Blind Runner Makes Marathon HistoryBritish runner Clark Reynolds, who has just 5% vision due to retinitis pigmentosa, became the first blind person to complete a marathon using Meta smart glasses and the Be My Eyes app. At the 2026 Brighton Marathon, he was guided by 400 trained volunteers who rotated every 30 minutes via the app, with a physical guide runner alongside as a safety net. A feel-good story of the year contender — and we're hoping to get Clark on the pod soon.

World Athletics Marathon World Championships | Our TakeWorld Athletics has announced a standalone World Athletics Marathon Championships launching in 2030, separate from the main World Athletics Championships. Athens is in the running to host, citing the marathon's birthplace. The official reason given? Climate change. Michael isn't buying it. We break down what this could — and should — look like, and why the Tour de France/F1 model is the blueprint they're ignoring.

Josh Kerr | Marathon CuriosityOne of the world's premier milers and 1500m runners has publicly expressed his desire to one day run — and win — a World Marathon Major. We dig into the history of track-to-marathon transitions (Kipchoge, Sifan Hassan, Kenenisa Bekele) and why this path is more plausible than it sounds. A marathon Kerr vs. Ingebrigtsen rivalry? We're manifesting it.

Gout Gout | 19.67 in the 200m at Age 18The Australian teenage sprinting phenomenon ran 19.67 in the 200m in Sydney — breaking the World U20 record and becoming the first Australian man to break 20 seconds under legal wind conditions. For context: Usain Bolt ran 19.93 at the same age. Gout Gout (G-O-U-T G-O-U-T) is now 16th on the all-time 200m list at 18 years old. Born December 29th, he's one to circle for the 2028 Olympics.

Come to our LIVE SHOW in Boston! Join Alex, Katelyn and Michael and some very special guests, + giveaways and prizes!

📅 Saturday, April 18, at 6:45 p.m

📍 Trident Booksellers & Café, 338 Newbury Street

🎟️ It’s free to attend, but make sure to RSVP now, as space is limited: https://forms.gle/sFk28hfMYznrsNxMA

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:

This episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: https://⁠livemomentous.com

Lagoon pillows help us sleep better, so we run better. Want to try? You can save 15% with code MARATHON. Go to https://LagoonSleep.com/marathonhandbook and take the 2-minute sleep quiz to find your match.

This week on the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Katelyn Tocci and Alex Cyr pull back the curtain on their personal 5K training journeys — and the result is one of the most detailed, practical running conversations we've had on this show.

An ultra runner who resisted speed training for a decade. A half marathon specialist chasing a collegiate dream time. Both took on a 12-week 5K build at the same time, and both have a lot to say about what happened.

Resources:

Katelyn's Sub-20 5K video: https://youtu.be/tPXSg3od1k0?si=KdVE6pNVQ8pm4xoB

5K training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/5k-training-plans/

Marathon Handbook newsletter — nearly 300,000 subscribers: marathonhandbook.com

Key topics covered in this episode:

• Why 5K training benefits runners of all distances, including marathon and ultra runners
• How to structure a 12-week 5K training block
• Katelyn's pyramid speed session and Alex's "Prove It" workout
• The 80/20 rule and why easy runs must stay easy
• Managing peak weeks, deload weeks, and tapering for a 5K
• Katelyn's full race day account: the nerves, the body cam, the rainy start, and an 18:36 finish
• Rapid fire: sleep, the #1 beginner mistake, embracing 5K intensity, and racing shoe picks (Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite, ASICS MetaSpeed Edge)

Come to our LIVE SHOW in Boston! Join Alex, Katelyn and Michael and some very special guests, + giveaways and prizes!📅 Saturday, April 18, at 6:45 p.m📍 Trident Booksellers & Café, 338 Newbury Street 🎟️ It’s free to attend, but make sure to RSVP now, as space is limited: https://forms.gle/sFk28hfMYznrsNxMA

It's been a dramatic week in the world of distance running and Michael and Jessy are here to break it all down.

The biggest headline: Conner Mantz, the American marathon record holder who was one of the most anticipated starters at this year's Boston Marathon, has officially withdrawn with a stress-related injury. It's a significant blow ahead of what was shaping up to be one of the most exciting Boston fields in years.

On a more uplifting note, BYU freshman Jane Hedengren continues to rewrite the record books — this time at Stanford, where she clocked 30:46.8 in the 10,000 meters in her very first attempt at the distance, shattering the NCAA Women's record and slotting in at number seven on the US all-time list. She's 18 years old. Remember her name.

It was also a huge weekend for 5K records. French star Jimmy Gressier ran 12:51 in León — just two seconds shy of the world record — and set a new European Road 5K mark in the process. Meanwhile, 62-year-old Clare Elms did something arguably even more remarkable, running 17:45 to smash her own age group world record by 20 seconds. Her age-graded score? 104%. Yes, really.

Then there's the story that genuinely stopped us in our tracks: Clarke Reynolds, a 45-year-old runner from England with just 5% vision, is preparing to run the Brighton Marathon on April 12th guided entirely by remote volunteers via RayBan Meta smart glasses and the Be My Eyes app — with no in-person guide alongside him. It's a genuine world first, and we're already planning a follow-up with Clarke after the race.

And the episode closes on a frustrating note. Albert Korir, the 2021 NYC Marathon champion, has been handed a five-year ban after testing positive three times for CERA: a synthetic blood booster in the same family as EPO. All his results from October 2025 onwards are disqualified, though he retains his 2021 title. It's another painful reminder of the doping cloud still hanging over elite distance running.

Jess McClain is one of the most compelling figures in American distance running right now and this conversation is a perfect example of why.

Alex Cyr sits down with the Brooks-sponsored pro for a wide-ranging, deeply honest conversation that covers the full arc of Jess's career: the early promise, the painful burnout that led her to step away from the sport entirely, the unlikely comeback through a casual marathon in Arizona, and the extraordinary run of near-misses and controversies that have defined her return to elite competition.

Jess speaks publicly for the first time about being led off course during the USATF Half Marathon Championships in Atlanta — a moment that cost her a shot at the US World Championship team, prize money, rankings points, and potentially shoe contract bonuses. She walks us through exactly what happened on the course, how she handled the chaos in the moment, and what she thinks needs to change so athletes are never left in that position again.

She also revisits the Paris situation — being flown over as an Olympic alternate for the marathon, sitting on the bench all week, and being told the day before the race that she wouldn't be needed. And she talks with remarkable grace about finishing fourth at the 2024 US Olympic Marathon Trials, just 15 seconds outside the team.

With Boston 2026 on the horizon and a World Championship bid still in play, Jess is as motivated as ever — and as level-headed as you'll find at this level of the sport.

Topics covered:

• Stepping away from pro running and losing the love for it
• The Mesa Marathon comeback and rediscovering joy in the sport
• 4th place at the 2024 US Olympic Marathon Trials
• Being flown to Paris as an alternate — and not racing
• Signing with Brooks and taking ownership of her own career
• The self-coaching period and eventually linking up with David Roche
• Training structure: mileage, workouts, and effort-based running
• The Atlanta USATF Half Marathon Championships — being led off course
• The full financial and competitive cost of the incident
• Skepticism around elite marathon times and racing with integrity
• Boston 2026 goals and race strategy
• The evolution of women's marathon longevity
• Fast Money Round

Follow Jess McClain on Instagram: @jesstonn

Photo credit: Bryan Garcia Luna

Marathon Handbook: marathonhandbook.com

Come to our LIVE SHOW in Boston! Join Alex, Katelyn and Michael and some very special guests, + giveaways and prizes!📅 Saturday, April 18, at 6:45 p.m📍 Trident Booksellers & Café, 338 Newbury Street 🎟️ It’s free to attend, but make sure to RSVP now, as space is limited: https://forms.gle/sFk28hfMYznrsNxMA

It's the final installment of Spring Mailbag Madness, and it's a big one. Michael Doyle and Katelyn Tocci answer 12 listener questions: from Boston Marathon pacing strategy (including why 72% of Boston runners go out too fast and pay for it later) to Achilles injury decisions, Norwegian Singles training, shoe rotation questions and training for a marathon while playing hurling all summer. Yes, hurling.

James Copeland’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/Norwegian-Singles-Method-Subthreshold-Running/dp/B0G4D8438Z

Katelyn’s article about Norwegian Singles:

https://marathonhandbook.com/norwegian-singles-training/

Send us an audio question:

https://marathonhandbook.com/podcast/

THIS EPISODE'S QUESTIONS:

Nell (17, Swiss Alps) asks: is there an ideal age to start running marathons?

Mark asks about the Norwegian Singles method — plus Michael teases a major upcoming announcement involving the man who actually invented it, Marius Bakken.

Cynthia (Seattle) sends a voice note with two questions: how does coaching change for experienced runners over 65? And what advice do you have for running safely as a woman in an unfamiliar city?

Jason wants to know if the ASICS MEGABLAST and SUPERBLAST 2 are different enough to justify owning both.

Chris (Australia) just ran three marathons in six months and now has a 10K on the calendar. Should his training look different?

A second Chris asks how to pace Boston with a 10-minute PR on the line — specifically how to survive (and exploit) that notorious opening downhill.

Zach shares his ambitious progression plan toward a Boston qualifier and asks if he's being too aggressive.

Pat (Ireland, now in Toronto) is moving back to Ireland for the summer and plans to play hurling while also training for the Valencia Marathon in December. Can he do both?

Taylor sends a follow-up from the winter mailbag — she's going for sub-3 at Boston and has two questions: should she run slightly faster than her planned pace, and how does she protect her toenails before her August wedding?

Deepak is running Vancouver and wants to know if he should push to a faster pace given his recent half marathon time.

Zach (a different Zach) has a marathon in less than two weeks and an ongoing Achilles injury. Should he race?

An anonymous listener has Achilles tendonitis, a stress reaction in the fibula, and a half marathon registered for April 5th. Same question.

Send us your voice notes via SpeakPipe — link at marathonhandbook.com — and email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com. We read and answer everything, even if it takes us a little while.

Subscribe to our free newsletter at marathonhandbook.com/newsletter — 287,000 runners every morning at 5:05 AM Eastern.

Come to our LIVE SHOW in Boston! Join Alex, Katelyn and Michael and some very special guests, + giveaways and prizes!📅 Saturday, April 18, at 6:45 p.m📍 Trident Booksellers & Café, 338 Newbury Street 🎟️ It’s free to attend, but make sure to RSVP now, as space is limited: https://forms.gle/sFk28hfMYznrsNxMABoston Article:https://marathonhandbook.com/could-boston-marathons-qualifier-problem-be-solved-by-going-two-days/

Michael and Jessy are back with the top five running stories of the week — and there's a lot to unpack. Before they dive in, a quick celebration: Jessie ran her debut half marathon over the weekend, clocking a 1:34 after just six weeks of run training. Not bad for a professional cyclist.

Story 1: London Marathon Eyes 100,000-Runner, Two-Day EventThe Guardian has reported that the London Marathon could expand to a two-day, 100,000-runner event as early as 2027. The proposal would see the men's and women's elite races split across Saturday and Sunday, each with 50,000 mass participants. With 1.1 million ballot applicants this year and London's status as the world's largest single-day charity fundraiser, the upside is enormous — but the logistical hurdles are just as big. London Marathon Events has not confirmed or denied the report.

Story 2: Emma Bates Claims She Was Dropped by Sponsor for Being PregnantIn an Instagram video, American elite marathoner Emma Bates revealed that her nutrition sponsor UCAN ended their partnership after she told them she was pregnant. UCAN pushed back, saying the decision was made in September 2025 — before they knew about the pregnancy — as part of a broader strategic shift away from elite athlete sponsorships. With no clear evidence either way, it's a he said/she said story that has stirred significant debate in the running community.

Story 3: US Half Marathon Championship Controversy Gets More ComplicatedFollowing the Atlanta debacle where lead runners Jess McClain, Emma Grace Hurley, and Edna Ker were sent off course during the US Half Marathon Championships, World Athletics has approved a one-time expanded entry of seven athletes (up from four) for the World Half Marathon Championships this fall. The catch: there will be an A team (four scoring runners) and a B team (three non-scoring runners wearing different kits). The big unresolved question — who earns the A team spots? Michael and Jessie weigh in.

🎙️ Listen out this weekend for Alex Cyr's exclusive one-on-one interview with Jess McClain — her first time speaking publicly about the Atlanta controversy.

Story 4: Modesto Marathon Winner Disqualified After Lead Bike ErrorBenjamin Enowitz crossed the finish line first at the Modesto Marathon in California — and was immediately handed a DNF. He'd been led short of the halfway turnaround point by the lead vehicle and didn't complete the full distance. It's not the first time the Modesto race has had a lead vehicle incident, and it's part of a wider pattern the team has noticed: course errors caused by lead vehicles are becoming a weekly story in 2026.

Story 5: Chaos at China's Shang Do World Heritage MarathonThree separate incidents at the same race in China generated headlines worldwide. First, a runner with the surname Wang stopped mid-race to do the splits and pose for photographers — earning a two-year race ban. Then, a runner named Zang was photographed carrying a clear drawstring bag stuffed with hundreds of free race gels — also disqualified and banned for two years. Finally, a third runner received a lifetime ban from the Chengdu race after a bib-swapping incident.

Breaking News (just before recording): Former New York City Marathon champion Albert Korir has reportedly tested positive for EPO or an EPO-derived substance. Full coverage next week.

In this episode, we’re joined by Des Linden — Boston Marathon champion, Olympian, and one of the most respected voices in distance running.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:

Saysky makes incredible running gear that our team love. Use code MARATHON15 for 15% off your purchase at https://saysky.com

This episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: https://⁠livemomentous.com

At this stage of her career, Des is stepping away from elite road racing and embracing something completely different: ultrarunning.

She’s preparing for the Marathon des Sables, a multi-day race across the Sahara Desert — and somehow also planning to be at Boston… and London… right after.

We cover:

• Why she’s taking on Marathon des Sables

• How her training has changed (heat, weight, and nutrition)

• Her transition from marathon to ultra distances

• The mindset shift after “retirement” from elite racing

• Boston Marathon strategy and advice

• The current state of elite running

• Doping, trust, and the future of the sport

• Her podcast with Kara Goucher

• What’s next for her career

This is a candid, insightful conversation about evolving as an athlete and what comes after you’ve already reached the top.

—

🎧 Listen to more Marathon Handbook Podcast episodes
🏃‍♂️ Training guides, gear reviews & more at Marathon Handbook

If you enjoyed the episode, leave a rating ⭐ and share it with a fellow runner!

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth dive into one of the wildest weeks in running news.

We cover a major shake-up ahead of the London Marathon as Sifan Hassan withdraws due to injury — and what it means for the elite field.

Then, a controversial NCAA doping case explodes into the spotlight after athletes stage a dramatic podium walk-off in protest.

Plus:• A bizarre Strava upload that exposed the location of a French aircraft carrier• Clayton Young’s surprise move from ASICS to Brooks just weeks before Boston• A marathon in China where the winner was literally stopped meters before the finish• We also preview Boston, talk London contenders, and share details about upcoming live shows.

Got running questions? We’ve got answers.

In this second March Mailbag Madness episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci tackle listener questions on super shoes, marathon fueling mistakes, hydration myths, and how to break through mental barriers like chasing a sub-3 marathon.

We cover:

• The BEST super shoes for your next marathon (and how to choose)

• Why you might be bonking at 30K (hint: it’s not always hydration)

• Carbon-plated shoes for heavier runners

• How to bounce back after a failed race

• Smart pacing strategies for a sub-3 marathon attempt

And a fun debate: what should we rename the half marathon?

Plus: Alan Turing’s marathon time vs modern runners, fueling strategies, and race-day mindset tips.Chapters:00:00 Intro – Mailbag Madness Returns00:30 Listener Questions Overview (Shoes, Hydration, Fun Topics)05:30 Best Super Shoes for Your First Marathon10:00 Carbon-Plated Shoes for Heavier Runners18:30 Break – Sponsors & Gear Talk21:00 Marathon Bonking: Hydration vs Fueling Explained27:30 Hydration Strategies (Vest vs Aid Stations)29:00 Carbs, Fueling & Avoiding the Wall37:30 Renaming the Half Marathon (Fun Debate)44:30 Alan Turing’s Marathon Time (How Fast Today?)50:00 Sub-3 Marathon Strategy & Mental Game55:00 Overcoming Self-Doubt After a Bad Race01:01:00 Pacing Strategy for Sub-3 Attempts01:02:00 Outro + How to Submit Questions

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:

Saysky makes incredible running gear that our team love. Use code MARATHON15 for 15% off your purchase at https://saysky.com

Lagoon pillows help us sleep better, so we run better. Want to try? You can save 15% with code MARATHON. Go to https://LagoonSleep.com/marathonhandbook and take the 2-minute sleep quiz to find your match.

📩 Email us your questions here:podcast@marathonhandbook.com

Send us an audio question here:marathonhandbook.com/podcast

👍 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and drop your questions in the comments!

#running #marathon #supershoes #marathontraining #runningtips #sub3marathon

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down one of the most chaotic weeks in running news this year.

A little-known Ethiopian runner stunned the world at the Barcelona Marathon, running 2:10:53 in her marathon debut — the fastest debut ever and the second-fastest women’s marathon in history. But with the current world record clouded by doping controversy, what does this performance really mean?

We also discuss Eliud Kipchoge’s 2026 race calendar, which includes marathons on three continents: Cape Town, Brazil, and Melbourne.

Plus:

• NYC Half Marathon results

• Helen Obiri’s dominant performance

• Grant Fisher’s pro road debut

• Randi Zuckerberg’s impressive 82-mile FKT

• Nike’s new ultra runner residency program

If you enjoy running news, marathon analysis, and the biggest stories in endurance sports, tune in every week for The Running Story.

In this Mailbag Madness episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci answer listener questions about training, racing, injuries, and running gear.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:Saysky makes incredible running gear that our team love. Use code MARATHON15 for 15% off your purchase at https://saysky.comThis episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: https://⁠livemomentous.com

Topics include building a long-term plan to qualify for the Boston Marathon, whether runners should race a half marathon before their goal marathon, and how hard workouts should feel during a training block.

We also discuss returning to running after Achilles and plantar fasciitis injuries, fueling strategies for long runs, and whether runners actually need a shoe rotation to improve performance and reduce injury risk.

Questions answered in this episode:

• How should I structure a multi-year Boston qualifying plan?

• Is racing a half marathon 8 weeks before a marathon a good idea?

• How fatigued should you feel during training?

• How do you safely rebuild mileage after injury?

• Do runners really need multiple pairs of running shoes?

Plus: running stories, weird animal encounters on the run, and Alex’s now-infamous runner feet.

Have a question for the show?
Email podcast@marathonhandbook.com

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the five biggest stories shaping the running world.

First up: Jacob Kiplimo runs 57:20 at the Lisbon Half Marathon, potentially reclaiming the half marathon world record pending ratification after last year’s controversy over pacing vehicles.

Next, Eliud Kipchoge announces he’ll run the Cape Town Marathon, marking the first time the marathon legend will race on African soil in a marathon — and possibly positioning him to become the first eight-star finisher if Cape Town becomes a World Marathon Major.

We also dive into two major LA Marathon controversies:

• A stunning 0.01-second finish after the race leader was misdirected off course near the finish

• A heated debate after runners who took a heat-relief shortcut at mile 18 were still awarded finisher medals.

Finally, the NYC Marathon lottery results are out — and the odds are tougher than ever, with around 1% of applicants accepted.

Connor Mantz is the American marathon record holder, but his journey to the top hasn’t been straightforward.

After a breakout 2025 season that included a record-breaking 2:04:43 at the Chicago Marathon, Mantz looked poised for even bigger things. But a sacrum stress fracture forced him off running for nearly three months.

In this episode, Alex Cyr sits down with Mantz to talk about his recovery, his build toward the 2026 Boston Marathon, and what it takes to compete with the best marathoners in the world.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:

Saysky makes incredible running gear that our team love. Use code MARATHON15 for 15% off your purchase at https://saysky.com

Lagoon pillows help us sleep better, so we run better. Want to try? You can save 15% with code MARATHON. Go to https://LagoonSleep.com/marathonhandbook and take the 2-minute sleep quiz to find your match.

They discuss:

• Setting the American marathon record in Chicago

• The injuries that derailed his training

• How elite runners approach recovery and cross-training

• Whether Americans are closing the gap on East African runners

• Super shoes and how they’ve changed racing

• Doping concerns in professional running

• Why Utah produces so many elite distance runners

• His long-term goal of winning an Olympic medal in 2028

Plus a rapid-fire round covering shoe rotations, breaking two hours in the marathon, and who he trusts most to babysit his future child.

00:00 Intro
00:47 Meet American Marathon Record Holder Conner Mantz
02:30 Injury After Chicago & The Road Back
04:30 Running Through Injuries
06:30 The Sacrum Stress Fracture Explained
11:00 Cross Training While Injured
14:30 Returning to Running After 12 Weeks Off
17:40 Boston Marathon Build & Training Strategy
22:00 Benchmark Workouts Before a Marathon
24:00 Can Conner Mantz Win Boston?
25:30 Choosing Marathons: Legacy vs Prize Money
28:30 Olympic Gold vs Winning a Major
31:00 The Sour Patch Kids Doping Scare
36:00 Doping in Elite Running
44:30 The Enhanced Games Debate
49:00 Are Americans Catching East African Runners?
54:00 The Super Shoe Effect
57:00 Why Some Runners Improve So Fast
58:30 What Makes Conner Mantz a Great Marathoner
1:00:30 Why Utah Produces So Many Elite Runners
1:04:00 Goals for 2026 & Olympic Dreams
1:06:00 Rapid Fire Questions
1:15:00 Where to Follow Conner Mantz

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth unpack one of the most dramatic weeks in running so far this year.

We start in Tokyo, where the first World Marathon Major of 2026 delivered a blistering three-man sprint finish and a stunning women’s course record performance.

Then we dive into the chaos at the US Half Marathon Championships in Atlanta, where a lead vehicle reportedly took a wrong turn — costing Jess McClain a national title and a potential automatic World Championships spot.

Plus:

• Ironman bans on-course photography, phones, GoPros, and wearable camera glasses — is this about safety or squeezing athletes into buying official photos?

• Olympic superstar Eileen Gu’s surprisingly strong running résumé

• Honoring the legacy of Jeff Galloway, 1972 Olympian and pioneer of the run-walk method

It’s a packed episode covering controversy, brilliance, and legacy in the running world.

Follow the show for weekly deep dives into the biggest stories in running.

Read Amby Burfoot's interview with Jess McClain.

00:00 Intro2:00 Tokyo Marathon 2026 Recap5:06 Jeff Galloway Remembered (1945–2026)8:15 Eileen Gu: The Elite Runner That Never Was11:25 US Half Marathon Championships Controversy17:54 Ironman Bans On-Course Photography

Recorded moments after the elite races finished, we break down everything from the 2026 Tokyo Marathon. Brigid Kosgei stormed back into world-class form with a stunning 2:14:29 course record (14:25), while Tadesse Takele defended his title in a 2:03:37 thriller that came down to the final meters (23:51). We unpack the women’s race coverage issues and what we missed early (06:16), the bold front-running move that shaped the men’s race (17:58), the Japanese national record battle (26:40), standout performances and surprises (31:03), and what the shoe wars looked like on both podiums (40:00). Plus: our honest take on the broadcast, the app frustrations, and whether Tokyo just moved up — or stayed put — on our personal majors bucket lists (46:24).

#tokyomarathon #WMM #WorldMarathonMajors #marathon #running

In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci break down everything you need to know about the first World Marathon Major of 2026: the Tokyo Marathon.

We deliver a complete race preview — from course strategy and congestion to race-day weather, elite storylines, and bold predictions. If you’re racing Tokyo, chasing a marathon PR, or just love major marathon season, this is your full guide.

We cover race basics and how to watch live (04:37), including start times and logistics, plus just how hard it is to get into Tokyo’s infamous 2% lottery (09:00). Then we dive into a full course breakdown (12:30), race etiquette and on-course rules (17:30), and Tokyo’s unique aid stations and fueling setup (29:10). We analyze the race-day weather forecast and conditions (32:20), and explore Tokyo Marathon history and course records (35:57).

On the elite side, we break down the women’s field (41:52), including whether Sutume Kebede can three-peat (43:00), and what Sara Hall racing both Tokyo and Boston means (45:00). We debate why Tokyo still hasn’t produced a world record (48:50) before turning to the men’s field (51:52), the Japanese national record showdown (53:30), and dark horse breakout potential (56:00).

Finally, we make our official predictions for the winners (1:02:55) and close with our World Marathon Majors Power Rankings — PB edition (1:09:56), before final thoughts and how to follow the race live (1:18:30).

Topics include:

• Elite field predictions (men’s & women’s)

• Course record potential

• The Japanese national record battle

• Why Tokyo hasn’t produced a world record

• Course strategy & race-day tips

• Weather forecast analysis

• Is Tokyo secretly the fastest major?

• Could Cam Levins break the North American record?

If you’re running Tokyo, planning your next major, or gearing up for marathon season — this is your complete race preview.

Subscribe, rate, and follow the Marathon Handbook Podcast for weekly running news and marathon analysis.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:

Saysky makes incredible running gear that our team love. Use code MARATHON15 for 15% off your purchase at https://saysky.com

This episode is presented by Momentous.

Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: https://⁠livemomentous.com

#tokyomarathon #WMM #WorldMarathonMajors #HarryStyles #marathon #running

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down five of the biggest headlines in distance running.

The NYC Half Marathon elite fields are officially set, and the matchups are electric. Grant Fisher makes his highly anticipated half marathon debut, while Sharon Lokedi and Hellen Obiri renew one of the sport’s fiercest rivalries.

On the track, Keely Hodgkinson takes down a long-standing 800m indoor world record in dominant fashion.

In ultrarunning, Ashley Paulson runs 12:19:34 to break the women’s 100-mile world record — but her past suspension raises questions that the sport can’t ignore.

Plus, a Florida man is federally indicted under the Rodchenko Anti-Doping Act in connection with an Olympic sprinter — a case that could have serious implications for elite sport.

And finally, the Boston Marathon unveils its 2026 finisher medal. Is it a classic… or a step backward? We debate.

Subscribe for weekly breakdowns of the biggest stories in the running world.

0:00 Intro1:15 NYC Half Marathon Preview5:36 Florida Doping Indictment8:05 100-Mile World Record10:51 800m Indoor World Record13:15 Boston Marathon 2026 Medal Debate

📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.

🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast

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What’s next in running shoes — and are we entering a new era?

In this episode, Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci break down the biggest Spring 2026 shoe releases and the state of the super shoe arms race.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:

Saysky makes incredible running gear that our team love. Use code MARATHON15 for 15% off your purchase at https://saysky.com

Lagoon pillows help us sleep better, so we run better. Want to try? You can save 15% with code MARATHON. Go to https://LagoonSleep.com/marathonhandbook and take the 2-minute sleep quiz to find your match.

We cover:

• ASICS Superblast 3 and the “do-it-all” trainer debate
• Salomon’s aerodynamic Phantasm 3 — does aero matter for runners?
• On’s LightSpray expansion and what it means for performance footwear
• The latest super shoe developments from Adidas, Nike, ASICS, and Puma
• Why elite marathoners may be racing in shoes you can’t buy
• The rapid evolution of daily trainers
• Buy, Hold, or Sell: Our quick takes on the newest releases

We also discuss whether brands are innovating too fast, if super shoes are becoming inaccessible, and what everyday runners should actually buy in 2026.

If you're training for a spring marathon, planning a fall race, or just trying to keep up with the latest shoe tech, this episode is your complete 2026 preview.

Follow Marathon Handbook for weekly running news, race coverage, gear reviews, and training insights.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro – Spring 2026 Running Shoe Preview
01:30 ASICS Superblast 3 Deep Dive
07:30 Superblast 3 vs Mega Blast – What’s the Difference?
11:40 Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 3 (Aerodynamic Super Shoe?)
20:30 On LightSpray Update & Cloudmonster 3 Hyper
26:00 2026 Running Shoe Trends
27:00 Creative Daily Trainers (Brooks, Nike, Saucony, ASICS)
33:30 Is the Classic Daily Trainer Dead?
38:40 Are Super Shoes Advancing Too Fast?
50:30 Super Shoe Watch – Nike Update
53:30 On Racing Shoe Updates
55:00 Adidas Pro Evo & Mystery 97g Shoe
57:00 ASICS MetaSpeed Developments
58:30 Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 4
01:00:00 Saucony, Brooks, New Balance & HOKA Super Shoes
01:07:00 Buy, Hold, or Sell – Rapid Fire Shoe Takes
01:27:00 Wrap-Up & Where Shoes Are Headed in 2026

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the biggest stories in the running world.

Cole Hocker runs 3:45.94 to set a new American indoor mile record — the second-fastest indoor mile ever. What does it mean for the global mile scene?

Faith Kipyegon surprises everyone by racing her first-ever road 10K in Monaco. After dominating the 1,500m for years, is this the beginning of a move toward the marathon?

Check out our Barkley Marathon episode!https://youtu.be/F0XU2NqKCxA

Super Shoe Rankings:https://youtu.be/Jbb1KIH-3qI

We also discuss:

• Sam Ruth’s latest performance on US soil

• On’s new super shoe prototype approved by World Athletics

• The Super Bowl halftime performer who logged his show on Strava

• Truett Hanes running 2:36 at the Austin Marathon — in full-length jeans

• Whether the “Jeans Guy” can realistically qualify for the US Olympic Marathon Trials

New episodes of The Running Story drop weekly, covering the biggest stories in track, road racing, and marathoning.

00:00 – Intro: This Week in Running News
00:30 – Barkley Special Episode Mention
01:10 – Story 1: Cole Hocker Breaks Indoor Mile Record
02:30 – Sam Ruth’s Big Test Against Elite Milers
04:50 – What’s Next for Sam Ruth in 2026
05:45 – Story 2: Super Bowl Halftime Show Logged on Strava
06:30 – Viral Sugar Cane Costume Workout Explained
07:30 – How Strava Got Him a NYC Marathon Bib
08:45 – Story 3: On’s New Super Shoe Prototype Leak
09:30 – World Athletics Approval & Prototype Rules
10:15 – Helen Obiri’s London Marathon Opportunity
11:00 – New Midsole Tech and Cloudboom Updates
13:15 – Can On Compete With Nike & Adidas?
14:30 – Story 4: Faith Kipyegon’s Surprise Road 10K Debut
15:30 – Negative Split Win in Monaco
16:30 – Could Faith Kipyegon Run a Marathon One Day?
19:30 – Story 5: Truett Hanes “Jeans Guy” Austin Marathon
20:40 – Running 2:36 in Denim: How Serious Is He?
21:45 – Olympic Trials Standard: Still a Long Way to Go
22:45 – Tearaway Jeans vs Racing Shorts Debate
24:50 – Wrap-Up & Subscribe for Weekly Episodes

The 2026 Barkley Marathons delivered one of the most brutal editions in race history — and for the second year in a row, no one finished.

In this episode of The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth unpack everything that happened at this year’s Barkley Marathons in Tennessee’s Frozen Head State Park.

They discuss:

• Why the February start made this year historic

• How cold rain, fog, and creek crossings shaped the race

• The shockingly low Loop 1 completion rate

• The lone “fun run” finisher

• The top women’s performances

• The mysterious reporting style of the Barkley

• Whether Lazarus Lake made the race too hard

• What 2027 might look like

Is the Barkley Marathons supposed to be nearly impossible — or has the balance tipped too far?

If you love ultrarunning, trail running, and deep race analysis, this episode is for you.

Read our feature on Keith Dunn:

⁠⁠https://marathonhandbook.com/meet-keith-dunn-the-mad-tweeter-of-the-barkley-marathons/⁠⁠

New episodes of The Running Story drop weekly.

If you could run any race in the world next year… what would you choose?

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:

Saysky makes incredible running gear that our team love. Use code MARATHON15 for 15% off your purchase at https://saysky.com

This episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: https://⁠livemomentous.com

In this episode, we host our second annual Marathon Handbook Fantasy Race Draft, building the ultimate 2026 race calendar.

Each of us must draft:

• A Spring & Fall 5K

• A Spring & Fall 10K

• A Spring & Fall Half Marathon

• A Spring & Fall Marathon

• One true ultra (50K+ trail)

• One wildcard race
  And we can only pick one race per country.

From the London Marathon and NYC Marathon to UTMB, Valencia, Athens, Patagonia, Japan’s iconic relay culture, and some unexpected 5Ks — we debate speed vs experience, strategy vs bucket list, and which races are truly worth traveling for.

Who built the best year of racing?

Let us know what YOUR dream race calendar would look like.

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth unpack one of the strangest controversies in recent running history.

A men’s half marathon world record — the fastest ever run — has officially been disqualified nearly a year later. We break down why World Athletics made the call, how much advantage pacing vehicles really provide, and what it means for the sport moving forward.

Plus:

• Eliud Kipchoge shows up at the Winter Olympics in a surprising Nike activation

• Brooks posts massive global growth and quietly becomes running’s most dominant brand

• Femke Bol debuts at 800m and immediately makes history

• Andre De Grasse swaps the track for the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game

From elite performance to brand strategy and Olympic storylines, this episode covers everything runners need to know this week.

🎙️ New episodes every week from Marathon Handbook

📌 Subscribe for weekly breakdowns of the biggest stories in running, track & field, and endurance sports.

📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.

🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast

📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook

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Running is often called a “cheap” sport — but anyone training seriously knows that’s not the full story.

In this episode, the Marathon Handbook team takes on a challenge inspired by listener feedback: build a full year of training, racing, shoes, gear, and nutrition for under $2,000.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:Lagoon pillows help us sleep better, so we run better. Want to try? You can save 15% with code MARATHON. Go to https://LagoonSleep.com/marathonhandbook and take the 2-minute sleep quiz to find your match. Saysky makes incredible running gear that our team love. Use code MARATHON15 for 15% off your purchase at https://saysky.com

We cover:

• Realistic race schedules and entry fees

• How many shoes you actually need

• Where to save (and where not to)

• Budget alternatives to expensive nutrition

• Smart strategies for buying last-year’s gear

Each host creates a completely different runner avatar — from beginner to experienced marathoner — and defends every dollar spent.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make running more affordable without cutting corners that matter, this episode is for you.

Chapters/Topics:3:07 The Rules8:22 Goal Races26:04 Shoes46:26 Apparel1:18:13 Tech1:28:40 Nutrition1:40:57 Grand Totals1:42:42 Biggest Splurges1:46:34 Largest Compromise?1:47:27 What Would You Cut?1:48:39 What Would You Upgrade?1:50:23 Budget Advice for New Runners

Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth return with five of the most intriguing running stories of the week:

King Charles III makes a surprise appearance at a parkrun in Norfolk (0:56).

A billionaire pledges $100M to support U.S. Olympic athletes — with delayed payouts and major conditions (6:16).

Sha’Carri Richardson faces legal trouble after being clocked at 100 mph (12:00).

Triathlon star Kristian Blummenfelt records the highest VO₂ max ever measured (15:34).

16-year-old Sam Ruthe shocks the sport with a historic 3:48 mile in Boston (18:36)

Plus, Jessy shares his early picks for the London Marathon.

New episodes every Monday evening — subscribe and stay caught up on the running world.

Olympian and professional runner Sam Parsons joins Alex Cyr on the Marathon Handbook Podcast for a deep, honest conversation about elite running, creativity, and life beyond racing. Sam reflects on his early days with Tin Man Elite and becoming one of the first elite runners to document his career on YouTube (00:00), balancing wedding planning with professional sport (04:30), and his recent Achilles injury and recovery (06:00). He discusses the realities of moving from track to road racing (14:40), why elite runners need interests beyond performance (18:30), and breaks down FAVES, the athlete-focused tech platform he’s building (20:40). The conversation also covers Sam’s work with Tracksmith (42:10), the truth about super shoes and sponsorship leverage (47:40), his decision to move from Boulder to Los Angeles (56:00), and finishes with a fast-money round and reflections on fulfillment (01:03:10).

Follow Sam Parsons on IG: https://www.instagram.com/par_sam_sons/https://www.instagram.com/par_sam_sons/

Host: Alex Cyr

Guest: Sam Parsons

Editor/Producer: A. Smithee

Special thanks to Massimo Alpian at Tracksmith

The half marathon might be the most popular race distance in the world — but is it actually the perfect running event?

In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael Doyle is joined by coaches and athletes Katelyn Tocci and Alex Cyr for a complete deep dive into the half marathon.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS: This episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: ⁠livemomentous.com
Rocket Money saves you money by cancelling unwanted subscriptions, hassle-free: https://rocketmoney.com/gorun

We discuss:

• The surprising origins of the half marathon

• Why it feels more like a 10K than a marathon

• The key workouts that build half marathon fitness

• Long run guidelines for beginners vs advanced runners

• Race-week pacing strategy and the “15K wall”

• Fueling rules (when gels actually matter)

• Strength training mistakes runners make

• Best bucket list half marathons: Valencia, Copenhagen, NYC, Super Halves

• Should the half marathon be an Olympic event?

• And… what should we rename the half marathon?

Whether you're racing your first 13.1 or chasing a PR, this is your complete half marathon handbook.

Half Marathon Training Plans: https://marathonhandbook.com•

Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter

Topics/Chapters:

0:00 Intro

0:23 Half Marathon Overview

2:06 Origins of the Half Marathon

9:35 Popularity of the Half Marathon

19:11 What Kind of Race is It? (Comparing to 10K and Marathon)

28:21 Physiology of the Half

36:33 Why the Half is Hard

41:51 Why the Half is Misunderstood

44:51 Weekly Training Structure

48:00 Key Half Marathon Workouts

53:59 Common Training Mistakes

58:06 Long Runs

1:02:01 Fueling During the Race

1:04:44 Carb Loading for a Half

1:08:59 Post-Race Recovery

1:12:27 Are Hot Tubs Overrated?

1:15:39 Travel-Worthy Half Marathons

1:23:04 Half Marathon and Olympics

1:26:29 Rebranding the Half

1:33:07 Final Thoughts on the Half

Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the five most compelling stories in running this week — starting with one of the most bizarre marathon disqualifications ever, after a runner was spotted racing the Hong Kong Marathon with a baby strapped to his chest.

From there, they dive into Des Linden’s jaw-dropping spring race schedule, which somehow includes the Marathon des Sables, Boston, and London — all within weeks. The episode also features a standout moment from Boston’s indoor Grand Prix, where a 60-year-old grandmother ran a mile world record, plus two more historic performances on the track.

The conversation wraps with elite running politics, world record context, and a lighthearted but surprisingly thorough investigation into which marathon Harry Styles might target in 2026 — with Chicago, London, and New York all in play.

Insightful, opinionated, and deeply nerdy in the best way — this is The Running Story.

Planning Upcoming Tour Around Marathons?📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter

In this Winter 2026 Mailbag, the Marathon Handbook crew answers listener questions on some of the toughest — and most misunderstood — topics in marathon running.

From runners who missed sub-3 by seconds, to first-time marathoners chasing Boston, to athletes sidelined by injury, this episode dives deep into both the physical and mental side of training.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:We love Wahoo’s KICKR RUN treadmill – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order.

Lagoon pillows help us sleep better, so we run better. Want to try? You can save 15% with code MARATHON. Go to https://LagoonSleep.com/marathonhandbook and take the 2-minute sleep quiz to find your match.

Rocket Money saves you money by cancelling unwanted subscriptions, hassle-free: https://rocketmoney.com/gorun

We cover:

• Whether to repeat a sub-3 training block or hire a coach

• How much marathon pace should actually hurt

• Long runs vs. overall volume — what matters more?

• Shoes for mid-pack marathoners: super shoes or not?

• Training in extreme heat for cold-weather marathons

• Injury, identity, and staying motivated when running is taken away

• Alcohol during marathon training: moderation vs. abstinence

• Fine-tuning pace by seconds per kilometer

This is a must-listen for anyone training for a marathon — whether you’re chasing Boston, your first finish, or a big personal breakthrough.

Interview with Pete Pfitzinger, co-author of Advanced Marathoning: https://youtu.be/pw9edKx9Mws?si=1bQ_KYd_dRLdUGUm

📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.

🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast

📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook

📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter
🎙 New episodes weekly from Marathon Handbook

The Running Story is Marathon Handbook’s weekly news recap show with Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth. This week we break down Des Linden’s big 2026 announcement—she’s heading to the Sahara for the Marathon des Sables (00:35), then celebrate Dot McMahan’s remarkable Houston Marathon performance as the 49-year-old hits the U.S. Olympic Trials qualifying standard for a record sixth Trials appearance (04:29). We also cover a frightening situation at the Winter Spine, where human rights advocate Sarah Porter was removed from the event after death threats were received (06:46). Next up: Molly Seidel storms into the ultra world by winning the Bandera 50K outright and smashing the course record in her ultra debut, plus a look ahead to Black Canyon and the Western States “golden ticket” path (09:58). We wrap with a lighter one—Ed Sheeran revealing he’s a runner, and the bigger trend of pop stars embracing running (14:03). 

#Running #Marathon #Ultrarunning #TrailRunning #TrackAndField #RunningNews #MarathonHandbook #DesLinden #MollySeidel #EdSheeran

In this Marathon Handbook Podcast episode, Michael Doyle, Katelyn Tocci, and Alex Cyr unpack what actually defines a long run—and how long is “long” for different goals (00:07). After some pre-run chaos (Patriots/Boston accent talk) (01:14), Alex breaks down his Houston Half Marathon PR and the wild sub-elite start experience (07:03), including pacing strategy and the trio finish (21:17). Then the crew goes deep on long-run philosophy: how to structure it across a training block, when to add quality like fast finishes or marathon-pace intervals, and why many runners cap the long run around three hours (30:13) (53:10). They also cover fueling basics—carbs per hour, gels, gut training, and modern trends like hydrogels (1:15:16) (1:23:23), before Coach Katelyn lists common long run mistakes (too fast, skipping fueling, skipping deload weeks, poor recovery, and more) (1:30:22). Mailbag submissions are open at podcast@marathonhandbook.com (1:48:55), and Katelyn teases a 10-mile race update for next week (1:51:46).

This episode is presented by Lagoon Sleep – Adjustable, breathable pillows designed to improve sleep and recovery. Take the 2-minute sleep quiz and get 15% off with code MARATHON.👉 https://lagoonsleep.com/marathonhandbook Wahoo KICKR RUN – A smart treadmill that adapts to your pace with RunFree Mode and lateral tilt. Get a FREE Headwind fan with code MHRUN.👉 https://www.wahoofitness.com Momentous – NSF-certified supplements trusted by elite athletes. Get up to 35% off your first order with code MARATHON.👉 https://www.livemomentous.com

📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.

🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast

📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook

📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook

📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter

👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.

📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives.

#running #marathontraining #longrun #halfmarathon #10ktraining #5ktraining #runners #runningtips #endurance #fueling

The Running Story returns with a jam-packed week in running. Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down a stunning Houston Half Marathon debut (00:45), major American and Canadian breakthroughs (02:55), and standout performances across both Houston marathons, including Sarah Hall’s incredible run at age 42 (04:10). The show then pivots to the rise of the grassroots Burrito League replacing the Chipotle Strava Challenge (06:50), Beatrice Chebet stepping away from the track in 2026 and what it means for the 5,000m and 10,000m landscape (10:15), a controversial ultra runner’s Mission America challenge and Badwater 135 bid (13:45), and record-breaking performances at the Valencia 10K in Spain (16:50). Everything runners need to know — in one weekly recap.

#RunningNews #Marathon #HalfMarathon #TrackAndField #UltraRunning

#RunningPodcast #MarathonHandbook #Strava #RoadRunning #EliteRunning

Who will shape the future of running in 2026? In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael Doyle, Katelyn Tocci, and Alex Cyr rank the 26 most influential people in running for the year ahead — from global superstars like Sifan Hassan and Eliud Kipchoge to behind-the-scenes power players at Nike, Strava, World Athletics, and the World Marathon Majors. We debate celebrity runners like Harry Styles (48:50), analyze the future of super shoes and Nike’s leadership (48:50–54:30), break down the rise of Conner Mantz (54:30), and explain why Sifan Hassan earns the top spot (01:11:00). Plus, plenty of honorable mentions, strong opinions, and classic Marathon Handbook banter along the way.

This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order

📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.

🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast

📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook

📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter

#RunningPodcast #MarathonHandbook #RunningNews #MarathonRunning

#SifanHassan #EliudKipchoge #FaithKipyegon #RunningCulture

#TrackAndField #MarathonTraining

NOTE FOR SUBSCRIBERS:

This is a bonus, inaugural episode of a new weekly podcast we’re piloting called The Running Story. For the next few weeks, you’ll receive this show in the Marathon Handbook feed on Mondays alongside our regular Thursday podcast. We’d love your feedback — email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com. More new podcast projects are coming in 2026.

Welcome to the first episode of The Running Story, a new weekly running news podcast from Marathon Handbook.

Hosted by Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth, this show breaks down four to five of the most important and interesting stories from the past week in the sport and culture of running. Each episode is designed to get you up to speed quickly — under 30 minutes — with context, analysis, and conversation around the stories runners are already talking about.

In this inaugural episode, we cover:

• The Tokyo Hakone Ekiden, Japan’s biggest running event

• The rebrand of the NN Running Team

• Ultra legend Ann Trason’s remarkable multi-day run

• Shelby Houlihan’s controversial trail racing debut

• Truett “Jeans Guy” Haynes and his Olympic Trials ambitions

This podcast is released weekly on Mondays, in addition to the regular Marathon Handbook Podcast on Thursdays.

Carbon-plated super shoes now dominate marathon racing — but which ones are actually the best right now? Michael Doyle and Alex Cyr break down the definitive 2026 super shoe power rankings, using elite marathon podium data, real-world shoe usage from the Chicago and New York City Marathons, and hands-on testing of every major racing shoe (00:00). They reveal which brands truly dominate the podium (18:55), count down the top 10 super shoes in the world (27:10), debate the Nike Alphafly 3’s place in history (52:20), and crown the best super shoe available today (01:04:15). The episode wraps with predictions for where super shoe technology is headed in 2026 and beyond (01:19:45).

This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order.

And by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: ⁠livemomentous.com

Marathon Handbook Super Shoe Power Rankings (Winter 2026): 1. Adidas Adios Pro Evo 2 2. Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 3. ASICS Metaspeed Tokyo (Sky / Edge) 4. Nike Alphafly 3 5. Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 6. Adidas Adios Pro 4 7. ASICS Metaspeed Ray 8. On Cloudboom Strike LS 9. Adidas Adios Pro Evo 1 (V2) 10. New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite 5Alex Cyr’s Top 10 Super Shoes: 1. Adidas Adios Pro Evo 2 2. Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 3. ASICS Metaspeed Tokyo (Sky / Edge) 4. Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 5. Nike Alphafly 3 6. ASICS Metaspeed Ray 7. Adidas Adios Pro 4 8. Adidas Adios Pro Evo 1 (V2) 9. New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite 5 10. On Cloudboom Strike LSMichael Doyle’s Top 10 Super Shoes: 1. Adidas Adios Pro Evo 2 2. ASICS Metaspeed Sky/Edge Tokyo 3. Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 4. Nike Alphafly 3 5. Adidas Adios Pro 4 6. ASICS Metaspeed Ray 7. Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 8. On Cloudboom Strike LS 9. Nike Vaporfly 4 10. Tracksmith Eliot RacerPrevious Power Rankings (Summer 2025) 1. Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 2. Adidas Adios Pro Evo 1 3. Nike Alphafly 3 4. Adidas Adios Pro 4 5. ASICS Metaspeed Sky/Edge 6. Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 7. On Cloudboom Strike LS 8. ASICS Metaspeed Ray 9. Nike Vaporfly 4 10. Tracksmith Eliot Racer 11. On Cloudboom Strike 12. Brooks Hyperion Elite 5

📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives.

#SuperShoes #RunningShoes #MarathonTraining #CarbonPlated #MarathonRacing #NikeRunning #AdidasRunning #ASICSRUN #PumaRunning #RunningPodcast

#NikeAlphafly3 #NikeVaporfly4 #AdidasAdiosProEvo2 #AdidasAdiosProEvo1 #AdidasAdiosPro4 #ASICSMetaspeedSkyTokyo #ASICSMetaspeedEdgeTokyo #ASICSMetaspeedRay #PumaFastRNitroElite3 #SauconyEndorphinElite2 #NewBalanceFuelCellSuperCompEliteV5 #NewBalanceFuelCellSuperCompEliteV4 #OnCloudboomStrike #OnCloudboomStrikeLS #TracksmithElliotRacer #HokaCieloX1 #HokaCieloX1V2 #HokaRocketX3 #BrooksHyperionElite5 #UnderArmourVelocityElite3 #DiadoraGaraCarbon2 #PumaDeviateNitroElite3 #AdidasPrimeXEvo #MizunoWaveRebellionPro #TYRCarbonElite #CEPOmniSpeed #Xtep160X35Pro #AntaCarbonPlate

In this Mega Mailbag episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci answer a mountain of listener questions to close out 2025. The conversation covers running weight and fueling strategies (06:50), jump rope as cross-training (22:10), marathon confidence and mindset (27:40), returning from injury (45:40), breaking sub-3 and chasing Boston Qualifiers (55:20), increasing mileage as a new runner (01:08:00), first marathon pacing (01:11:30), strength training with injuries (01:21:30), winter training and cold-weather pacing (01:26:10), gear and shoe recommendations (01:34:00, 02:06:30), training around the menstrual cycle (01:45:10), and how becoming a parent impacts running goals (01:51:00). A wide-ranging, honest, and practical episode for runners at every stage.

This episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: ⁠livemomentous.com

📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives.

#RunningPodcast #MarathonTraining #BostonQualifier #Sub3Marathon #RunningAdvice

#MarathonMindset #RunningShoes #WinterRunning #DistanceRunning #MarathonHandbook

Ahmed Muhumed’s rise in American distance running almost didn’t happen. In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, host Alex Cyr talks with the HOKA NAZ Elite athlete about quitting his job, moving to Flagstaff with just $150, and betting everything on becoming a professional runner. Ahmed opens up about belief, recovery, elite mileage, finishing fourth in the 10,000m at U.S. Championships, chasing the American half marathon record, marathon ambitions, and what it truly takes to live like a pro athlete (00:00). The conversation also explores mindset, gratitude, financial realities of pro running, content creation, and what comes next on the road to LA 2028 (25:20).

This episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: ⁠livemomentous.com

📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives.