The CITIUS MAG Podcast | A Running + Track and Field Show

“What we're doing is working. Let's continue, let's be consistent, and let's not go overboard. How we got to running 7:30 is how we're going to try to win a national championship in three months. There's no reason to change anything. It's just keep on staying steady.”

My guest for today's episode is Ethan Strand, a senior at UNC. Just last weekend, Ethan ran a stunning 7:30.15 in the 3000m at the Sharon Colyear-Danville season opener at Boston University – not only smashing the NCAA record but also vaulting him to No. 4 on the all-time U.S. list. Ethan now sits alongside legends like Grant Fisher, Yared Nuguse, and Bernard Lagat.

His journey from being a 201st place finisher at his first NCAA Cross Country Championship to an Olympic Trials finalist in the 1500m and NCAA top-eight finisher just a few weeks ago in Madison, and now the fastest collegiate 3000m runner in history, is fascinating to unpack in today's episode.

We dive into his race in Boston, his dynamic training partnership with Parker Wolfe, and what's next for him as he gears up for an exciting 2025 season.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Ethan Strand | @ethan_strand

Time stamps:

3:39 - Reflections from setting the collegiate 3000m record

4:53 - Thoughts on competing over chasing times

5:40 - Training with teammate Parker Wolfe

7:08 - His relationship with Coach Chris Miltenberg

10:59 - Rebounding from outdoor season

12:40 - Learning from Coach Milt’s former athletes, like Grant Fisher

15:57 - Growing up in a running family

17:10 - How he got his start in running 

20:43 - His training structure dating back to high school

21:37 - His mileage progression 

26:00 - Breaking down his 3000m collegiate record

32:00 - Being among the big names of American distance running

35:56 - What’s next for indoor season

37:31 - Looking ahead to goals for next summer

39:01 - UNC’s team culture

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com

“Ultimately, for that Orlando race, that was more about getting my feet wet a little bit and seeing how the distance felt. Now that I know how it feels, I know that I can push harder.”

My guest for today's episode is Amanda Vestri. She's a professional runner for Brooks who trains with Zap Endurance. She's a rising star on the U.S. distance running scene who just made a stunning half marathon debut at the Orlando Half this past weekend with a blazing 1:18:12 performance that puts her at No. 13 on the U.S. all-time women's half marathon list and sets the stage for what could be an incredible road racing career ahead for her.

Amanda's path to this milestone hasn't been smooth after an injury disrupted her training just weeks before her debut. She pivoted her plans and showed remarkable adaptability and determination to test herself in Orlando. The positives for 2024 outweigh the negatives. She ran a 31:10 personal best for 10K on the track. She was the top American at the NYRR Mini 10K. Over the summer, she signed a pro contract and then took fifth at the US Olympic trials 10,000m final on the track.

In this episode, we discuss her breakthrough 2024 season and unpack some of her aspirations for Houston and beyond. We also look back at what spurred her passion to someday become a professional runner and then follow her long term vision of making the U.S. Olympic Marathon team for Los Angeles in 2028. 

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Amanda Vestri | @a_vestri

Time stamps:

4:20 - Reflections on her 2024 season

7:21 - How her training has evolved throughout the year

9:58 - Details on her training group (Zap Endurance)

14:33 - Plans on chasing standards + U.S. teams

17:44 - Thoughts on racing the 10K

19:52 - Her transition to the roads

24:46 - Her path to elite running 

27:32 - Reflections on her college career at Iowa State + Syracuse

34:33 - How she handled getting COVID leading into the Olympic Trials

36:51 - Signing with Brooks during the Trials

40:24 - Breaking down the Olympic Trials 10,000m

45:29 - Half marathon being an underrated distance

51:13 - Details on some of her workouts + long runs 

54:36 - Breaking down the race

56:33 - Goals for the Houston Half

59:34 - Fueling during the race 

1:02:21 - Thoughts on moving up to the marathon 

1:06:51 - Goals looking ahead to 2025

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time, runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

"I had done great things in the sport before, but I had never won a medal. That was something that had tormented me and eluded me for so long. And I finally got two of them. So it feels great. It feels even better when you feel so much ownership over them. I know that it was my decision-making and risk-taking that led to those outcomes."

My guest for today's episode is U.S. Olympian and two-time bronze medalist Grant Fisher. Grant had a career-defining year in 2024, standing on the podium twice at the Paris Olympics in the 5000m and 10,000m. But true to his form, he's not content to rest on those accomplishments. He's gearing up for a new challenge in 2025 by signing on for the inaugural season of Grand Slam Track.

In this interview, he shares his thoughts on how the Grand Slam model can elevate track visibility, attract new fans, and give athletes like him more opportunities to test themselves against the best in the world. He's in a racer group that will contest a 3K and 5K against the likes of Luis Grijalva, Ronald Kwemoi and one more racer that is expected to be announced soon. 

We dive into Grant's reflections on his breakout 2024 season, the lessons he's carrying into 2025, and how he's preparing for a shot at both glory and Grand Slam Track and some more hardware at the world Championships in Tokyo.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Grant Fisher | @grantfisher_ on Instagram

Time stamps:

4:08 - Where he’s at with training and racing coming off the Olympics.

5:15 - Reflections on his 2024 season.

6:42 - How he built his confidence heading into the Olympics.

7:47 - Goals for the 2025 season.

8:48 - Why he decided to sign with GST. 

15:24 - Why he might have an edge over other GST racers.

17:12 - Thoughts on racing the 3K/5K double in Jamaica.

21:05 - Why fans should care about watching GST.

23:19 - Thoughts on his GST competitors, who else he wants to join.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results.⁠ Learn more at WahooFitness.com⁠

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

“It’s time to move on to bigger adventures.” Graham Blanks, the Harvard standout and two-time NCAA cross country champion joins The CITIUS MAG Podcast with the news about his decision to turn professional with New Balance. Just two days ago, Graham ran 12:59.89 for 5000 meters indoors, becoming only the second collegian in history to break 13 minutes indoors—a fitting way to cap off one of the most decorated collegiate careers in recent memory. In this interview, we’ll reflect on Graham’s Harvard career to the global stage as a U.S. Olympian in the 5000m and his incredible cross country dominance over the past two years. We’ll also discuss his decision to return for one final collegiate cross country season, his plans to stay in Boston with coach Alex Gibby, and how he is thinking about balancing life as a new pro with finishing his degrees in economics and philosophy.

Get the full scoop in our exclusive interview.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Graham Blanks | @graham_voted_for_pedro on Instagram

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Biya Simbassa took many American track and field fans by surprise on Sunday morning when they awoke to results from the Valencia Marathon and saw that the 31-year-old notched a personal best by nearly four minutes to run 2:06:53. The performance was good for 17th place in the race but moved him to No. 4 on the U.S. all-time list.

Only Khalid Khannouchi (2:05:38), Galen Rupp (2:06:07) and Ryan Hall (2:06:17) have run faster.

Back in 2022, we paid a visit to Flagstaff, Ariz. for a video featuring Simbassa and also recorded a podcast episode detailing his career path from being born in Ethiopia, moving to the United States in 2007 and then going through the school system. He started running in high school in Minnesota and then continued his development at Iowa Central Community College before transferring to Oklahoma. 

After graduating, he was coached by Scott Simmons in Colorado Springs before signing a pro contract with Under Armour to be part of the Dark Sky Distance Project with coach Stephen Haas. In 2023, Simbassa started working with Hall as his coach. The partnership lasted until this summer before Hall decided to step back from coaching. Simbassa worked with Ian Carter (a McKirdy Trained coach, who also was coached by Hall) for the Valencia Marathon build-up.

CITIUS MAG spoke with Simbassa on Thursday afternoon to get details on how the performance came about.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Biya Simbassa | @simba_runner

Time stamps:

3:19 - Reflections coming off the Valencia Marathon 

5:12 - Processing the Olympic Marathon Trials 

6:59 - Thoughts on whether he could’ve made the Olympic team

8:17 - When he knew the marathon was his event

11:15 - Feelings after not making Olympic team

13:00 - Why he races so often

17:14 - Thoughts on Ryan Hall stepping away as his coach

18:27 - Ian Carter becoming his new coach

19:42 - Why he landed on racing Valencia

20:39 - Goals and expectations heading into Valencia

23:55 - How he stayed composed after the halfway split 

27:12 - Valencia course + atmosphere

30:13 - Shoe choice for the race

32:00 - Fueling throughout the race 

33:44 - Plans for what’s next 

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

“A lot of the time it comes down to whether I’d rather set a world record in February or win the World Championships and defend my title in September. There's a lot that goes into it, but I think I'm fast enough to go after a world record in a few events.”

My guest for today's episode is none other than Cole Hocker, the 23-year-old American middle distance star who shocked the world at the Paris Olympics by winning gold in the men's 1500m. While the pre-race buzz centered on Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Josh Kerr, it was Cole who flew under the radar and stormed to victory in an Olympic record of 3:27.65.

If you go back into our podcast archives, you can find an episode that we did with Cole in Paris just 48 hours after his victory. It was really cool to have that moment etched in time and to hear how fresh his thoughts and feelings were. We touch on life since Paris in this conversation.

From his breakout performance in Tokyo to the Olympic triumph in Paris, Cole has established himself as one of the best middle distance runners in the world. We reflect on his incredible 2024 season and learn how he's gearing up for another big year with the World Championships in Tokyo on the horizon. Plus his participation in Grand Slam track's inaugural season.

Cole is also here to announce that one of his first races in 2025 will be the 3000m at the iconic Millrose Games this February in New York City. You can get your tickets at the Armory's website.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Cole Hocker | @colehocker on Instagram

Time stamps:

4:02 - Highlights since becoming the 1500m Olympic champion

6:25 - Plans looking ahead to 2025

8:05 - What recovery looked like for him post-Olympics

9:00 - Racing the 3000m at Millrose Games announcement

10:33- How he’s getting ready to move up to the 3K

11:50 - Why he’s racing the 3K instead of the mile at Millrose 

17:13 - Going after the 3K world record 

18:31 - Looking ahead to race plans for the 2025 season 

22:42 - Ways he’s hoping to continue improving 

25:44 - Deciding to sign with Grand Slam Track

28:35 - When he’ll start race-specific training 

29:24 - His upcoming 600m race with Fred Kerley

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

“I know that I have to come in even stronger, even faster, even better. I'm looking to break the world record indoors this season and win the world indoor title. That’s not going to come with me still living in being an Olympic champion from August. We've got to do it again.”

My guest for today's episode is Masai Russell, the Olympic champion in the 100m hurdles and one of track's brightest new stars. Masai's gold medal performance in Paris wasn't just a victory; it was a statement after a season filled with ups and downs and doubts. She channeled sheer will and resilience to seize the biggest title of her career crossing the finish line in a jaw-dropping photo finish that left fans around the world celebrating her triumph.

In this episode, Masai reflects on her remarkable 2024 season, the challenges she overcame to reach the top, and how she's already back to work with even bigger plans for 2025. There's also some great mindset talk in this conversation. 

Plus, she's here to announce one of her first races of 2025 will be the 60m hurdles at the Millrose Games. This upcoming February, you can get your tickets on the Armory's website. She'll bring the same fearless energy that made her an Olympic champion.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Masai Russell | @masai_russell on Instagram

Time stamps:

3:20 - How life has been since becoming the 100m hurdles Olympic champion

4:17 - Opportunities since winning the Olympics

6:28 - Plans for racing indoor season 

8:06 - Millrose annoucement: 60m hurdles

12:03 - How she progresses training to peak at the right meets

16:07 - What makes her stand out against her competitors 

21:03 - The night and day leading into the Olympic final 

26:47 - When the reality of becoming the Olympic champion sunk in 

29:23 - How her experience at Bullis High School shaped her mindset 

35:53 - Looking ahead to future races 

41:18 - More reflections on winning the Olympics

44:05 - What it’s going to take to top 2024 in 2025

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

“The pieces were there – but getting them to mesh and come together, we had to embrace the imperfect. We had to have these women realize that if you're scared of something, the only way to get over that fear is to conquer it. That was what this championship was for a lot of the women. 

My guest for today's episode is Diljeet Taylor, Head Coach of BYU’s women's cross country and track team. She's one of the most inspiring leaders in the sport. Coach Taylor just wrapped up a storybook season by guiding BYU to the 2024 NCAA Cross Country women's team title. It's their second national championship under her leadership and the program's sixth overall.

This victory wasn't just about redemption. It was about resilience one year after a devastating 14th place finish at NCAAs – the lowest moment of her coaching career. Coach Taylor and her team embraced the imperfect, leaned into their depth, and executed when it mattered most.

From butterfly mantras to pajama parties to brilliant race strategies, Coach Taylor proved that with belief and preparation, anything is possible. In today's conversation, we talked about BYU’s incredible turnaround, her approach to coaching All-Americans and building a winning culture, and why this year was a testament to her mantra, ‘Embrace the imperfect.’

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Diljeet Taylor | @diljeetdosanjhtaylor on Instagram

Time stamps:

3:33 - Reflections coming off BYU’s team title at NCAAs 

5:03 - Finishing 14th at the 2023 Championship to winning in 2024

8:47 - What she said to her athletes after NCAAs last year 

10:16 - How her coaching style has changed

12:27 - Lexy Halladay-Lowry’s progression + working through an injury to finish 14th

14:22 - What the evening was like with the team the night before NCAAs

21:03 - Why the team got off social media the month leading up to NCAAs

23:06 - “The Night Before Nationals” book

25:46 - Frank Gagliano’s impact on her as a mentor 

26:55 - Overcoming last year’s disappointment at NCAAs

29:12 - Goals and expectations heading into this year’s race 

34:05 - How the race played out 

37:27 - How the team celebrated winning 

42:38 - Looking ahead to next year’s team 

45:01 - What she hopes her legacy will be

48:49 - Connecting with other female coaches 

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

“The only magic thing about running is consistency. Consistent competence equals eventual excellence. That's kind of my mantra. So we try to stay healthy so that we can be consistent. We just keep on getting the miles in, getting the workouts in, and over time, good things happen. What was special about 2024? Who knows other than having the right athletes in the right position, the right belief and faith in their parts and goals, and going, ‘Hey, maybe we can do this.’”

My guest for today’s episode is BYU director of track and field and cross country Ed Eyestone, the architect of one of the greatest years ever for American distance running.

From Olympic medals and top-10 marathon finishes to NCAA titles, 2024 was nothing short of historic for Coach Eyestone and his athletes. Just this weekend, Ed capped it all off by leading the BYU men to their second NCAA cross country title in six years, holding off a stacked field at the Thomas Zimmer Championship Course. It’s been a dream season for Eyestone, whose year began with Conner Mantz and Clayton Young finishing 1-2 at the Olympic Marathon Trials and ended with BYU completing a historic NCAA sweep—both the men’s and women’s teams claiming national titles for the first time since 2004.

We dive into Ed’s coaching strategies, his reflections on this monumental season and how he’s built a culture of resilience and excellence at BYU. From the roads to the track to the grass, no one’s had a better 2024 than Ed Eyestone, and we can’t wait to hear his take on how it all came together.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Ed Eyestone | @edeyestone on Instagram

Time stamps: 

3:30 - Returning to campus after BYU won the NCAA XC Championship team title

5:13 - Feelings and emotions after winning the NCAA team title

7:16 - Strategy + plan for the men heading into the race 

10:54 - Using a whiteboard during the race to communicate with the team

12:29 - Using olive oil to stay warm during the race

14:18 - Backstory on the affirmations notecard on his arm during the race 

19:25 - Similarities between the men’s and women’s programs at BYU

23:23 - Why everything clicked for the team in 2024

27:53 - How the 2024 season was a dream come true 

30:44 - His process-oriented coaching philosophy 

33:19 - What the team got up to in the final days before the race 

36:48 - Casey Clinger’s impact on the team + how going on missions affects training

42:42 - How his coaching style has changed + how he structures workouts

45:56 - Thoughts on upcoming changes to the NCAA

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Harvard senior Graham Blanks successfully defended his NCAA Division I cross country championship on Saturday, winning the 10,000-meter race in 28:37.2, narrowly edging New Mexico's Habtom Samuel.

BYU became the first school since 2002 to win both men's and women's team titles at the same championship.

Men's Championship

Blanks' Victory: Blanks is the 13th runner in history to defend his title, cementing his legacy on the Thomas Zimmer course.

BYU's Team Triumph: The Cougars scored 124 points for their second men's title, led by Casey Clinger's 6th-place finish and Creed Thompson's 12th. All BYU scorers placed in the top 50.

Team Standings: Iowa State (137 points) finished second, followed by Arkansas, Wisconsin, and Northern Arizona. Defending champion Oklahoma State placed eighth.

Women's Championship

Doris Lemngole: The Alabama runner won the 6,000-meter race in 19:21, improving on her runner-up finish from last year. Pamela Kosgei of New Mexico was second in 19:27.8.

BYU Women Dominate: The Cougars scored 147 points to win their sixth title, with Lexy Halladay-Lowry finishing as the top scorer in 14th place overall.

Team Standings: BYU edged out West Virginia, with Providence, Northern Arizona, and Oregon rounding out the top five. Defending champion NC State finished eighth.

Historical Context

BYU’s sweep marks the first dual-team victory since Colorado’s achievement in 2002, highlighting their depth and dominance.

Blanks joins an elite group of repeat champions in the 86-year history of the NCAA men's cross country race.

The Big Picture

BYU's historic team wins and standout performances from Blanks and Lemngole underscore the competitiveness and unpredictability of collegiate cross country’s biggest stage.

For the third time in three months, the cross country world will descend upon Madison, Wisconsin on Saturday, and the stakes couldn’t be any higher. 31 men’s teams and 31 women’s teams punched tickets last weekend and a handful of star individuals round out each field. Both team races feature heavy preseason favorites looking to reclaim their top spots after late season losses, while both individual races are deep at the top with a handful of runners eyeing national titles. Fans are planning to pack the course in Madison, and they could be treated to a picture perfect setting with snowfall potentially in the forecast. More information on how to watch the meet, with ESPNU coverage kicking off at 9:30am E.T. Below we break down all four races, with a few sleeper picks to keep an eye on amidst the chaos that is NCAA cross country.

You can read our official preview here: https://citiusmag.com/articles/ncaa-division-1-cross-country-championships-2024-preview

“Especially after 36K, I was telling myself, ‘Even if they speed up, I have to go deep today…’ I was telling myself, ‘This is my moment.’”

My guest for today's episode is Abdi Nageeye, whose journey in 2024 could only be described as redemption at its finest. The Dutch marathoner and 2021 Olympic silver medalist who just three months ago grappled with his appointment after withdrawing late in the Olympic marathon in Paris, roared back to claim the biggest victory of his career at the TCS New York City Marathon.

In a thrilling showdown against one of the strongest fields in race history, Nageeye deployed patience, strategy, and a powerful finishing kick to secure his first World Marathon Major title in 2:07:39 seconds, making history as the first Dutchman and the first European since 1996. To win the New York City Marathon from his self coach training in Eldoret to a race plan honed by years of experience on the course, Abdi turned heartbreak into triumph.

We dive into his reflections on Paris, his mental and physical preparation for New York City, and what this victory means for him moving forward. But first, you'll also hear a never before released interview with Abdi from my trip to Kenya in June 2023, where we discussed a bit more of his backstory and upbringing from being born in Somalia to settling in the Netherlands as a refugee and spending time in Syria before finally being adopted by a Dutch family.

I initially planned for this to be released last fall, but didn't have a chance to, but I'm now glad it's finally out. It's fun because towards the end of that first interview, I asked him what he wants to accomplish and he finally gets it done. Part one is my interview with him in Kenya and then part two is my interview with him reflecting on New York.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Abdi Nageeye | @abdinageeye on Instagram

Time stamps:

2023 Interview live from Eldoret, Kenya:

3:37 - Reflecting on training 

5:02 - Why he likes to train in new places, what he enjoys about training in Kenya 

9:05 - His backstory + stories from growing up 

18:10 - Why he considers Africa to be his home 

20:33 - Being embraced by the Netherlands 

22:06 - Why shifting to the roads panned out so well for him 

25:49 - What he learned from training with athletes like Eliud Kipchoge 

28:20 - Future goals for his running career 

2024 Interview after winning the NYC Marathon:

34:51 - How training has been going since the NYC Marathon

38:17 - What life has been like since our first interview in 2023

41:00 - Current training setup 

43:28 - Paris Olympics marathon experience 

47:55 - Thoughts after dropping out of the Olympic marathon 

54:44 - NYC Marathon race breakdown 

59:03 - The final miles of the race 

1:01:03 - Thoughts when Tamirat Tola was closing on him and Evans Chebet

1:02:36 - The point when he knew he was going to win 

1:06:13 - Emotions after crossing the finish line 

1:08:12 - Looking ahead to future races 

1:11:18 - Reflecting on his marathon career so far 

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Chris Chavez and cross country expert Isaac Wood are back to recap conference weekend and preview each regional meet going down across the country this Friday. Join us for our thoughts and predictions on who will qualify for the big dance in Madison, Wisconsin on November 23rd. 

You can listen to our last NCAA cross country season check-in episode here.

Hosts: Chris Chavez | @chris_j_chavez on Instagram + Isaac Wood | @isaacew on Instagram 

Time stamps:

1:51 - Conference weekend recap 

4:34 - Isaac’s biggest takeaways from conference weekend

5:31 - Wake Forest’s men’s team looking strong heading into Regionals

6:59 - Big 12s men’s recap: thoughts on BYU, OSU

11:39 - Big 12s women’s recap: thoughts on BYU, West Virginia

16:05 - Oregon women looking to become a title contender 

17:45 - Projected top teams at NCAAs

20:52 - Explanation on how to qualify for NCAAs

22:36 - Auto-qualifiers + at-large predictions: men

30:05 - Auto-qualifiers + at-large predictions: women

35:10 - Regions to pay most attention to on Friday

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Chris Chavez and Preet Majithia review the second season of the Netflix documentary series, SPRINT. We share our thoughts and analysis on all four episodes and break down the top storylines throughout the season. You can listen to our review of the first season of SPRINT here.

Hosts: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram + Preet Majithia | @prm_32 on X

Time stamps:

1:22 - Season 2 overview: cast, notable athletes missing 

3:42 - Season 1 highlights 

Episode 1: ALL AMERICAN

5:32 - Noah Lyles

10:21 - Fred Kerley

13:10 - Christian Coleman 

15:40 - Gabby Thomas, Dennis Mitchell’s pro group 

17:57 - Little focus on athletes’ personalities outside of track 

19:48 - Highlights of episode 1

Episode 2: CHANGING OF THE GUARD

20:35 - Jamaican storylines

22:23 - Kishane Thompson, Oblique Seville 

25:53 - Shericka Jackson 

31:27 - Julien Alfred

Episode 3: GOING FOR GOLD: PART 1

33:45 - Series shifts to the Olympics

37:00 - Marcell Jacobs 

39:01 - Sha’Carri Richardson, Melissa Jefferson, TeeTee Terry  

44:10 - Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce

48:17 - Shericka Jackson 

50:24 - Julien Alfred

Episode 4: GOING FOR GOLD: PART 2

56:32 - Men’s 100m final 

1:02:19 - Kenny Bednarek

1:03:50 - Letsile Tebogo

1:05:10 - Men’s 200m: Noah Lyles getting COVID

1:08:36 - Women’s 200m: Gabby Thomas, Julien Alfred

1:11:32 - How the series ends + U.S. men’s 4x100m relay

Final takeaways:

1:14:39 - Parting thoughts and final rating 

1:17:53 - What comes next + will there be a Season 3? 

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

“What made me sign on is just how it was pitched: the fastest people in the world. There’s not many leagues that sign you on as contracted racers. That’s new. And I like to be a part of change.”

Grand Slam Track has confirmed that Kingston, Jamaica will be one of four cities that will play host to the action in the professional track league's inaugural season. In 2025, the first slam will be held at the national stadium at Independence Park on April 4th, 5th and 6th.

Back in June when the league was first announced, Los Angeles was one of the four cities that was announced, but Kingston is the first city confirmed with dates. This is the same stadium that hosts the Racers Grand Prix and the same stadium that is packed for five days when it hosts the ISSA/Grace Kennedy Boys and Girls Championships in March.

Grand Slam Track’s events will take place over three days with athletes racing twice. Athletes will receive points for their finishing position in each race and then the athlete with the highest points total after both events will win the slam and the $100,000 grand prize.

So what does this mean for the league? Grand Slam Track will have a host city where the Diamond League has not tapped into with one of the most devout track and field fan populations in the world. The fandom around the sprints is a national tradition from the high school to the Olympic level and the league has already invested in Jamaican talent with three Jamaican racers in Roshawn Clark, who will contest the 400m and 400m hurdles; Ackera Nugent, who will run the 100m and 100m hurdles; and Rushell Clayton, who will run the 400m and 400m hurdles.

So to get excited about the league and the first slam in Jamaica, we caught up with two-time world championship medalist Rushell Clayton at the Grand Slam Track Racer Summit in Los Angeles.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Rushell Clayton | @rushellclayton on Instagram

Time stamps:

6:04 - Excitement for racing in Kingsport for GST

8:06 - Why she decided to sign on with GST

9:32 - When the 400m hurdles event rose to a new level 

10:27 - What led to her 5th place finish at the Paris Olympics

12:30 - Chasing after a new 400m PB

13:05 - Thoughts on her competitors 

14:21 - Goals for 2025

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

“We’re kind of on this journey to the marathon. The next logical step is a half marathon. That will be in the new year. We don’t know exactly where yet but we want to go attack a half marathon. That’s what all the training is focused on and that’s why it’s been so fun. Not that the training is easy but it’s the training that comes the most naturally to me.”

My guest for today's episode is U.S. Olympian Joe Klecker of the On Athletics Club. He joins us with some news that he’s gearing up for his half marathon debut in early 2025 after a challenging comeback from injury.

Joe is back and looking to tackle a new distance with a keen eye on Ryan Hall's American record in the half marathon. While his 2024 outdoor season was sidelined by a torn abductor, he's now fully focused on the 13.1 mile distance. He doesn't say it, but I think all signs point that it will likely be at the Houston Half Marathon in January, which is traditionally perfect weather and very fast. And while he's not quite ready to step away from the track just yet, Joe is already embracing the marathon mindset and this is one step forward to getting to the full distance with a personal best of 12:54 for 5K and 27:07 for 10K. 

Joe's incredible speed and dedication are setting him up for a strong entry into the longer distance. So in this episode, we'll hear about his approach to injury recovery, his plans for that debut, all with the guidance of his coach Dathan Ritzenhein and the support of his training partner and Olympic medalist, Hellen Obiri. He also shares why he's hoping for one more team on the track. 

Many thanks to New York Road Runners for allowing us to host this conversation in front of an audience at the Citizens Bank stage at the TCS New York City Marathon Expo.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram⁠

Guest: Joe Klecker | ⁠@joe_klecker on Instagram ⁠

Time stamps:

3:43 - Getting to ride on the lead vehicle at the NYC Marathon 

5:21 - Thoughts on racing the marathon himself in the future. 

5:19 - Thoughts on teammate Hellen Obiri’s build leading into NYC 

7:09 - Details on Hellen’s workouts

9:30 - Coming back from injury this summer 

11:04 - How his training has evolved since graduating college 

12:16 - Future races on the calendar 

15:03 - Going after the half marathon American record 

17:14 - OAC’s team culture 

22:30 - What keeps training exciting 

23:37 - How he approaches his future career in the marathon 

24:34 - Why track and the marathon feel like different sports 

25:48 - Overrated/underrated: training methods

32:51 - Goals for 2025

34:29 - Why now is a good time to shift to the marathon 

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at ⁠WahooFitness.com⁠

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at ⁠drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

“I think as I run more and more and get more miles on my legs, I'll be able to hang with that lead pack later and later. But I stuck to my guns. I didn't really have a race plan going in other than taking the first few miles to feel it out. Then really just believing that I belonged in that lead pack for as long as I could hang with them.”

My guest for today’s episode is Jess McClain, who just wrapped up a heck of a year with an eighth-place finish at the New York City Marathon, running 2:27:19 and finishing as the second American.

It was Jess’s first World Marathon Major, and she showed incredible grit, moving steadily from 11th to 8th in the final miles and securing a spot among the top marathoners in the world.

As we’ve explored on this show with her in January, Jess’s journey to the marathon stage has been anything but typical. A former Stanford standout who took a hiatus from professional running, she’s reemerged with stunning results. Earlier this year, she finished fourth at the Olympic Marathon Trials, making her the alternate for Team USA and nearly earning a spot at the Paris Olympics. She’s since signed with Brooks and built a strong racing resume, including wins at the USATF Road 10K Championships and a second-place finish at the USATF 20K Championships.

Today, we’ll dive into her self-coached approach, her bold comeback, and what drives her heading into 2025.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Jess McClain | @jesstonn

Previous episodes with Jess McClain:

Jess McClain On Signing With Brooks Running (Again) + Deciding To Return To The Track

Jess McClain After Finishing Fourth At The 2024 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials (2:25:46) + How She Did It Self-Coached and Unsponsored | Race Recap 

Time stamps:

3:15 - Reflections on her 8th place finish at the NYC Marathon

5:58 - Rediscovering her love for racing

8:03 - Why she decided on racing NYC as her fall marathon 

10:34 - Details on her training throughout her build 

13:34 - Importance of being grounded outside of running 

16:31 - How her training setup has evolved + what she wants to change next 

19:39 - How she strikes the balance between working and training

24:01 - Nerves before the race 

27:35 - Starting line + first few miles

29:37 - Story about accidentally reversing her bibs

35:49 - Thoughts when the big move was made during the race 

43:07 - Feelings after crossing the finish line

45:38 - Looking ahead to future marathons 

49:01 - Thoughts on racing a track 10K next year

51:16 - Overrated/underrated: training methods

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

“I’m not in charge of how fit those guys are. No matter how hard I work, they could be working harder, they could be doing something better, they could be more talented. I was trying to take that out. My main goal in this race was just to execute. Execute my race plan, make sure I ran a race that afterward I felt good about. I think I did really well for most of the race.”

My guest for today's episode is Conner Mantz, the American Marathoner who just capped off an extraordinary year by setting an American course record at the New York City Marathon. He placed 6th overall in 2:09:00. Conner was the top American as usual and he showed us his relentless competitiveness.

He pushed through a conservative start and a fierce mid-race surge led by Evans Chebet, the 2022 New York City marathon champion, that splintered the rest of the field. Conner hung tough and ultimately finished with the fastest closing mile among all of the runners in the top ten.

In his young marathoning career, Conner has already established himself as the top American in Boston, Chicago, the Olympic Trials and an 8th place finish at the Olympics. Now he's setting his sights on closing the gap between being the best in America and being among the best in the world.

In this episode, we dig into his journey, his strategic approach under coach Ed Eyestone's “deploy, enjoy and destroy” race plan, and how he handles a little bit of friendly competition with training partner Clayton Young.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram⁠

Guest: Conner Mantz | ⁠@connermantz on Instagram⁠

Time stamps:

4:03 - Why he wasn’t satisfied with his performance at the NYC Marathon

5:46 - What would’ve made it a satisfying race 

7:43 - Overall fitness heading into the race

8:17 - Best workouts leading into the race 

13:07 - Going after the half marathon American record at the Houston Half in 2025

16:09 - Pre-race chat with coach Ed Eyestone: deploy, enjoy, destroy

19:30 - Responding to moves during the race 

25:40 - Sharing bottles during the race, Evans Chebet makes his move 

34:19 - Clayton catching up to him, snapping back into the race, final few miles

42:40 - Feelings after crossing the finish line 

47:27 - Grading his marathons throughout 2024

52:50 - Looking ahead to spring marathons 

54:35 - Future training plans with Clayton 

58:53 - Thoughts on joining Grand Slam Track as a challenger

1:03:34 - Overrated/underrated: training methods

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at ⁠WahooFitness.com⁠OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at ⁠drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

“I like having new goals and challenges. The marathon feels like almost a different sport. It's like a second career. It’s breathed a lot of life into my training, just having fresh goals all the time.”

My guest for today's episode is Sara Vaughn, who just delivered a standout performance at the New York City Marathon where she finished as the top American in sixth place overall running 2:26:56 in a year marked by comebacks.

The 38 year old mother of four wasn't about to let a tough season slow her down after battling illness and dropping out of the Chicago Marathon. Just three weeks ago, Sara decided to make a quick pivot and set her sights on New York and it paid off massively.

In this episode, she shares a bit about her untraditional journey to the starting line and how she balances elite competition with her family life. We talk about her remarkable rebound, her plans to keep pushing forward and what drives her as a professional runner and mother.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Sara Vaughn | @smevaughn on Instagram

Time stamps:

3:09 - Initial reflections from the NYC Marathon

5:01 - Having to drop out of the Chicago Marathon, shifting her focus to the NYC Marathon

6:14 - What her goals were for Chicago, how those goals changed for NYC 

8:40 - When things started to click for her in training

10:29 - How her training has changed since starting to work with coach Alistair and Amy Cragg

11:52 - What’s kept her in the sports for so long

15:37 - Racing her daughter Kiki in an 800m

21:12 - What her goals were on the day of the NYC Marathon

22:57 - Thoughts when the big move was made at 1st Ave

24:37 - Reflecting on Jenny Simpson’s marathon

27:58 - Hardest part of the race 

28:49 - Crowds during the final part of the race 

33:46 - Feelings after crossing the finish line 

36:16 - Going after the 2025 World Championships team 

36:50 - Answering listener questions

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

“[Coaching] is fulfilling, but it also sincerely does make me better. It makes me a better athlete. Miguel (Marin), just the way that he wanted to get better as a person and as a runner. He was a young person, didn't have life figured out and was still trying to figure himself out. I'm still trying to figure myself out. Just seeing him put the effort into himself that he did. There were so many times that made me be like, ‘I can do this. I can be better and improve upon things about myself and my emotional stability, my mental stability.’ All these things improve just by the relationship that we had.”

My guest for today’s episode is CJ Albertson. Just three weeks after setting a personal best of 2:08:17 at the Chicago Marathon, CJ came into the New York City Marathon and delivered another stellar performance, finishing 10th in 2:10:57.

CJ's year has been nothing short of extraordinary—top American at both the Boston and Chicago Marathons, a 5th-place finish at the Olympic Trials, and now, another top-10 finish in New York. No American had ever run sub-2:11 marathons so close together, but CJ isn't one to shy away from a challenge. We'll talk about his mindset, his breakout year, and his relentless pursuit of faster times.

Plus, CJ also shares a bit about how he was running in memory of Miguel Marin, who was one of his athletes who ran track and cross country at Clovis Community College. The 22-year-old died in a car crash over the weekend. A GoFundMe has been set up to assist with his family’s expenses. You can find the link to it here.

Plus, we do our overrated/underrated segment on training elements with CJ to close out the show.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: CJ Albertson | @cjalbertson on Instagram

Time stamps:

3:24 - Reflections on his past year of marathoning

8:07 - Which of his marathons was the most satisfying this year 

10:14 - How he approached racing both the Chicago and NYC marathons

13:10 - Factors that led to his improvement

15:13 - Hopes for what’s next in his career

22:25 - Race breakdown: 1st Ave

24:51 - Race breakdown: 5th Ave

28:32 - Thoughts on how to close the gap on becoming top American 

30:24 - How he hopes to continue improving 

36:30 - Race weight + fueling strategy while racing 

41:08 - Going after the 2025 World Championships team 

50:02 - Reflecting on Miguel Marin, his athlete who just passed away

56:40 - Answering listener questions 

1:02:02 - How coaching others makes him a better athlete

1:04:24 - Overrated/underrated: training methods

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

“You never know which build you're pulling from on race day. The most recent build is the most important build and indicator of what you can do on race day, but there's no reason why you can't be pulling from the Paris build, the Chicago build, and the Olympic Trials build. Fitness stacks over years and that lifetime fitness is just getting really, really big for me. I tried to lean into that. I think I did alright.” 

Within the past 14 months, Clayton Young and his training partner Conner Mantz have become synonymous with performing in high stakes marathon racing, finishing neck-and-neck at four marathons. Now, most recently at the New York City Marathon, Clayton crossed the finish line in an impressive seventh place finish just 21 seconds behind Conner Mantz, clocking 2:09:21.

This year has been nothing short of remarkable for Clayton, from the Olympic Marathon Trials to the Paris Olympics and now New York. We've got episodes with him after each one of those. We decided to keep the tradition alive as we dive into how New York City played out and reflect on Clayton's emotional and triumphant year in marathoning. Plus, we get to thinking about what's next in 2025.

Time stamps:

3:46 - Returning to training post-marathon

5:51 - Reflection coming off the NYC Marathon 

8:18 - His build leading into NYC: overcoming his achilles injury

11:56 - Pre-race plans with Coach Ed Eyestone

15:19 - Thoughts on the depth of the men’s field

18:57 - Breaking down the first part of the race 

22:19 - What happened after crossing the Queensboro Bridge 

32:01 - Tracking power (watts) during the race 

36:04 - “What ifs” from the race 

38:01 - Looking ahead to trying to qualify for the World Championships marathon 

42:17 - Future training plans with Conner Mantz 

48:08 - How this year transformed his running career 

51:10 - Being in the midst of the good ol’ days 

56:50 - Underrated/overrated 

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Clayton Young | @_clayton_young_ on Instagram

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In a fitting theme for the city of Broadway, the 53rd edition of the New York City Marathon was all about breakout stars finally getting their time in the spotlight. Both winners of the men’s and women’s elite races in NYC are frequently recurring characters near the front of major races, but neither had completed a signature performance before today. 

Abdi Nageeye of the Netherlands and Sheila Chepkirui of Kenya won their first World Marathon Major titles by defeating fields full of former NYC champs, with Nageeye outkicking 2022 champ Evans Chebet down the homestretch and Chepkirui beating 2023 champ Hellen Obiri at her own game with a late surge through Central Park.

Time stamps:

Women’s race:

2:10 - Breaking down Sheila Chepkirui’s win

5:03 - Hellen Obiri talking a big game + reflecting on her career

13:20 - Kudos to Vivian Cheruiyot for her third place finish

16:10 - Sara Vaughn’s top American performance

19:42 - More top results: Jess McClain, Sharon Lokedi, Kellyn Taylor, Tristan Van Ord, Dakotah Popehn

22:38 - Reflecting on Jenny Simpson’s career

Men’s race:

26:47 - Breaking down Abdi Nageeye’s win

31:24 - Evans Chebet’s performance, 30th career marathon 

33:18 - More top results: Albert Korir, Tamirat Tola

35:19 - Conner Mantz and Clayton Young’s races

39:45 - Kudos to CJ Albertson

More thoughts:

44:27 - 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials 

48:40 - Valencia Half Marathon recap

54:50 - What’s ahead on the CITIUS MAG Podcast

56:18 - Sydney Marathon becoming the newest World Marathon Major

Mentioned in this episode:

Watch: NYC Marathon Watchalong

Read: Parting Thoughts From The 2024 NYC Marathon: Abdi Nageeye and Sheila Chepkirui Win + More

Listen: 2024 NYC Marathon Pre-Race With Conner Mantz, Clayton Young, Hellen Obiri, Dakotah Popehn, Jess McClain + More

Listen: Jenny Simpson Reflects on Her Career from High School to 2019, Shares 2020 Plans and Hopes

Hosts: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram + Isaac Wood | @isaacew on Instagram

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

We opened up The CITIUS MAG Podcast to have ANYONE join us to share their NYC Marathon stories. It’s a rapid-fire, live podcast recording where we don’t know the guests and just want to connect and hear cool stories from the community. Thanks to HOKA for creating a safe and welcoming space for all these people to share their stories with us.

The race kicks off on Sunday, November 3rd with the women’s race starting at 8:35am E.T. and the men following at 9:05am E.T. (Don’t forget to set your clock back an hour the night before!) The race will be streamed nationally on ESPN and locally on ABC.

You can read our full NYC Marathon preview here.

CITIUS MAG is proud to partner with HOKA for our coverage of the 2024 NYC Marathon.

NAZ Elite's Paige Wood (née Stoner), Abby Nichols and Katie Wasserman join us for a live interview ahead of the 2024 NYC Marathon.

The race kicks off on Sunday, November 3rd with the women’s race starting at 8:35am E.T. and the men following at 9:05am E.T. (Don’t forget to set your clock back an hour the night before!) The race will be streamed nationally on ESPN and locally on ABC.

You can read our full NYC Marathon preview here.

CITIUS MAG is proud to partner with HOKA for our coverage of the 2024 NYC Marathon.

"The marathon is the longest event. You have to believe in yourself: 'I can do this.' It gets tough at the end. If you don't have that belief, if you don't believe in your training, it's going to get tough. It's just the mindset that, 'I can do this, but I need to be patient enough so that I can finish strong."

Wesley Kiptoo of NAZ Elite sits down with us for a live interview ahead of the 2024 NYC Marathon. He shares about transitioning from college racing to the marathon, his reflections from his debut marathon, how he prepared for the NYC course, and his race plan for tomorrow.

The race kicks off on Sunday, November 3rd with the women’s race starting at 8:35am E.T. and the men following at 9:05am E.T. (Don’t forget to set your clock back an hour the night before!) The race will be streamed nationally on ESPN and locally on ABC.

You can read our full NYC Marathon preview here.

CITIUS MAG is proud to partner with HOKA for our coverage of the 2024 NYC Marathon.

"It's more me against the distance instead of me against the field. That's how I like to think of the marathon."

Futsum Zienasellassie of NAZ Elite sits down with us for a live interview ahead of the 2024 NYC Marathon. He shares about how his training block for NYC compared to his training for the U.S. Trials, what it's been like training with teammate Wesley Kiptoo, how he hopes to improve upon his 2:09 PR, and his race plan heading into tomorrow.

The race kicks off on Sunday, November 3rd with the women’s race starting at 8:35am E.T. and the men following at 9:05am E.T. (Don’t forget to set your clock back an hour the night before!) The race will be streamed nationally on ESPN and locally on ABC.

You can read our full NYC Marathon preview here.

CITIUS MAG is proud to partner with HOKA for our coverage of the 2024 NYC Marathon.

"I want to reach the goals that I know I'm capable of reaching. It's going to require me to do things I have not done in the past. I feel like I just kept doing the same thing over and over in the past where I'm just coming top three, top four, top five. Sometimes I was satisfied with that. But I think if you want to be a champion, you can't be satisfied with that."

Ahmed Muhamed of NAZ Elite sits down with us for a live interview after winning the 2024 Abbott Dash To The Finish Line 5K in 13:38.

The race kicks off on Sunday, November 3rd with the women’s race starting at 8:35am E.T. and the men following at 9:05am E.T. (Don’t forget to set your clock back an hour the night before!) The race will be streamed nationally on ESPN and locally on ABC.

You can read our full NYC Marathon preview here.

CITIUS MAG is proud to partner with HOKA for our coverage of the 2024 NYC Marathon.

"The pleasure of being a coach is you get to bear witness to the process of what goes on behind-the-scenes. The fans only get to see what people do for a performance, but you get to know what's actually going on, the ups and downs... It makes those great moments mean even more."

NAZ Elite's Head Coach Jack Mullaney joins us live in New York to reflect on his first year with the team. Jack shares what he loves most about coaching, his philosophy, what the transition was like going from coaching at the college level to pro level, and what's ahead for the team.

The race kicks off on Sunday, November 3rd with the women’s race starting at 8:35am E.T. and the men following at 9:05am E.T. (Don’t forget to set your clock back an hour the night before!) The race will be streamed nationally on ESPN and locally on ABC.

You can read our full NYC Marathon preview here.

CITIUS MAG is proud to partner with HOKA for our coverage of the 2024 NYC Marathon.

The final World Marathon Major of 2024 is almost here! In a banner year for road running, it’s hard to imagine how anything could top the Olympics, a historic Chicago, or even the early thrills of the U.S. Trials, but NYC has assembled a field full of living legends, rising stars, and fascinating narratives primed to end the year on a high note.

Three 2024 Olympic medalists are hitting the five boroughs: Olympic champion Tamirat Tola of Ethiopia, silver medalist Bashir Abdi of Belgium, and bronze medalist Hellen Obiri of Kenya. Obiri and Tola also happen to be the reigning NYC champions, and Obiri will be trying to win the Boston-New York double for the second straight year. Five other former NYC champions are in the mix (three men and two women), plus a pair of stacked U.S. fields vying to produce top-10 overall finishes… or even higher.

Here’s a compilation of our interviews from the NYC Marathon press conference, including Conner Mantz, Clayton Young, Hellen Obiri, Dakotah Popehn, Jenny Simpson, Sharon Lokedi, Evans Chebet and Jess McClain. 

Time stamps:

0:05 - Conner Mantz

6:10 - Clayton Young

15:30 - Hellen Obiri

20:17 - Dakotah Popehn

24:29 - Jenny Simpson

34:09 - Sharon Lokedi

40:31 - Evans Chebet

43:35 - Jess McClain

Read: 2024 New York City Marathon Insider Notebook: What The Pros Had To Say Ahead Of Sunday’s Race

Read: Top Storylines To Watch At The 2024 New York City Marathon

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

The final World Marathon Major of 2024 is almost here! In a banner year for road running, it’s hard to imagine how anything could top the Olympics, a historic Chicago, or even the early thrills of the U.S. Trials, but NYC has assembled a field full of living legends, rising stars, and fascinating narratives primed to end the year on a high note. Three 2024 Olympic medalists are hitting the five boroughs: Olympic champion Tamirat Tola of Ethiopia, silver medalist Bashir Abdi of Belgium, and bronze medalist Hellen Obiri of Kenya. Obiri and Tola also happen to be the reigning NYC champions, and Obiri will be trying to win the Boston-New York double for the second straight year. Five other former NYC champions are in the mix (three men and two women), plus a pair of stacked U.S. fields vying to produce top-10 overall finishes… or even higher. The race kicks off on Sunday, November 3rd with the women’s race starting at 8:35am E.T. and the men following at 9:05am E.T. (Don’t forget to set your clock back an hour the night before!) The race will be streamed nationally on ESPN and locally on ABC.

You can read our full NYC Marathon preview here: https://citiusmag.com/articles/new-york-city-marathon-2024-preview

CITIUS MAG is proud to partner with HOKA for our coverage of the 2024 NYC Marathon.

Chris Chavez and Isaac Wood are back for another NCAA cross country recap episode. As championship season approaches, we recap the last few regular season meets: Pre-Nationals, Dellinger Invite, Princeton Classic, and Arturo Barrios. We break down the top teams and individual performances over the past few weeks and share our predictions for who to watch for as the NCAA Championship gets closer.

Time Stamps:

Women | Recap + Predictions 

1:58 - What to make of the newest rankings.

4:48 - BYU’s rise to the top. 

7:42 - Washington is making a jump to podium ranking.

9:30 - West Virginia’s breakout performance. 

11:42 - Thoughts on NAU + NC State.

13:37 - Florida State’s underrated performance. 

16:22 - Could the Utah women be a podium-contending team? 

20:09 - Princeton Classic recap.

22:03 - Individuals to watch: Pamela Kosgei and Doris Lemnogole.

Men | Recap + Predictions

26:42 - OSU’s dominance. 

28:52 - Arkansas’ standout performance at Pre-Nats.

30:39 - Dellinger recap + BYU closing the gap on OSU.

36:05 - Texas tech + Solomon Kipchoge. 

37:26 - Pre-Nats recap: Habtom Samuel vs. Graham Blanks.

39:45 - Big 12 Preview.

40:54 - Princeton Classic recap. 

42:45 - NAU falling in the rankings. 

Podium predictions: 

45:55 - Women’s teams + individual.

46:39 - Men’s teams + individual.

LISTEN: 2024 NCAA Cross Country Season Preview 

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Host: Isaac Wood | @isaacew on Instagram

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

WAHOO: KICKR RUN - a new revolutionary treadmill offering the freedom and form of outdoor running at home, from Wahoo Fitness. Run hands-free and focus solely on the joy of running with the innovative RunFree Mode - which adjusts to your stride and pace automatically. For the first time runners can now fully benefit from indoor training apps such as Zwift Run and the Wahoo app for an immersive training experience that delivers unmatched realism and results. Learn more at WahooFitness.com

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

U.S. Olympians Jasmine Jones and Shamier have signed with Grand Slam Track ahead of the professional track league’s inaugural season in 2025.

Jones wrapped up her senior year at USC with the NCAA indoor 60m title and NCAA outdoor 400m hurdles title. She ran personal bests in the 400m hurdles four times in the year, which culminated with a 52.29 performance for fourth place in the Olympic final – just .14 seconds shy of a medal.

Little is a two-time World Championship silver medalist in the 400m hurdles. At the Paris Olympics, she was part of the world-record setting mixed 4x400m relay and earned a silver medal in the mixed 4x400m final. She also led off the women’s 4x400m relay in the final with a 49.48s split before the team won gold in 3:15.27 – the second-fastest 4x400m relay of all-time.

In this episode, Anderson Emerole chats with Jones and Little to reflect on their experiences at the Olympics, break down why they signed with the league, why they’re excited for it, and what they’re looking forward to most heading into next year.

Host: Anderson Emerole | @atkoeme on Instagram 

Guests: Jasmine Jones | @jasminemjones1 on Instagram + Shamier Little | @shambambino on Instagram

Time Stamps:

Jasmine Jones:

4:58 - Reflecting on the Paris Olympics.

6:13 - What her expectations were for this season + the Olympics.

7:19 - Why she decided to join Grand Slam Track.

8:25 - Thoughts on racing the 400m and 400m hurdles for GST.

9:54 - Why she moved up in distance from the 100m hurdles. 

12:44 - Her perspective on racing for place vs. time.

13:36 - How she navigated a year filled with change. 

15:01 - Staying composed before races.

17:04 - How she shifted her mindset from competing in the NCAA to the pro level.

20:25 - What she’s most excited about looking ahead to 2025.

Shamier Little:

23:21 - Reflections coming off her historic season. 

25:00 - Biggest emotions and feelings from the Olympics.

27:08 - Mindset throughout the rounds at the Olympics. 

29:15 - What she’s most excited about with joining GST.

31:57 - Thoughts on her GST competitors.

34:35 - What makes the women’s 400m hurdles so special right now.

38:08 - Racing with grit. 

39:20 - How she plans on balancing her 2025 race schedule. 

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

"I’m actually very excited to sign with Grand Slam Track because I really enjoy racing. Time trialing is fun and all, but I’ve run 12:50 in the 5K, and there’s only so much of a difference between 12:40 and 12:50. I figure at this point in my career, it’s not the world record, I just want to compete and I just want to race."

Two-time Guatemalan Olympian and national record holder Luis Grijalva has signed with Grand Slam Track ahead of the professional track league’s inaugural season in 2025.

Grijalva joins Grand Slam Track as the third Racer in the “long distance” category that will contest the 3000m and 5000m at each respective Slam. He will be joined by 5000m Olympic silver medalist Ronald Kwemoi and 5000m and 10,000m Olympic bronze medalist Grant Fisher.

Grijalva finished fourth in the 5000m at the 2022 and 2023 World Championships and ran a personal best of 12:50.58 at the Oslo Diamond League in May. He owns a 3000m personal best of 7:29.43 from the 2023 Prefontaine Classic and finished third in the 3000m at this year’s Stockholm Diamond League in a season’s best of 7:33.96. 

In this episode, Grijalva joins Chris Chavez to break down why he signed with the league, why he’s excited for it, and what he’s looking forward to most heading into next year.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Luis Grijalva | @luisgrijalva_ on Instagram

Time Stamps:

5:01 - What he’s most excited about with joining Grand Slam Track.

7:47 - Perspective on championship racing vs. rabbited races. 

11:19 - How GST will help prepare athletes for global Championships.

14:42 - Thoughts on GST’s prize money. 

17:18 - Thoughts on his GST competitors + other athletes he wants to see join.

20:11 - What sets GST apart from other competitions. 

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

2x Olympian and Canadian record holder Natasha Wodak is set to take center stage at the 2024 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon. The 42-year-old Canadian record holder returns to Toronto to race the marathon for the first time in 11 years and she's targetting her first-ever national marathon title.

She has had a rollercoaster journey over the past 18 months from attempting to qualify for Paris 2024 but falling short. Despite these challenges, she’s coming off a strong year and now she's approaching the TWM with a new mindset, enjoying the chance to race in front of family and friends without the pressure of Olympic standards.

With a personal best of 2:23:12, Wodak’s goal is to secure the Canadian title. Hear about the various chapters of her running journey, her love for training, and how she’s embraced the marathon’s challenges with resilience and determination.

LIVE from the 2024 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon Expo!

Hosts:

Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Karen Lesiewicz | @kare_les on Instagram

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Chris Chavez and Preet Majithia recap episodes five and six of the Ingebrigtsen brothers’ new documentary series, "Ingebrigtsen - Born To Run.” Episodes five and six close the loop on the series by highlighting the brothers’ showing at the Norwegian and European Championships. We also share our critiques on Diamond League press conferences and share our thoughts on some of the editorial choices for the series. 

Hosts:

Chris Chavez | @chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Preet Majithia | @prm_32 on X

Time Stamps:

0:25 - We’re on Reddit!

2:17 - Overview of episode 5.

3:05 - Dynamic between Jakob and Henrik. 

4:19 - Jakob at press conferences + why he would make a great sports journalist. 

7:46 - Critique on Diamond League press conferences.

14:02 - European Championships recap.

17:15 - Jakob leaving for his workout while Elisabeth was in labor. 

23:36 - Norwegian Championships recap.

27:06 - Episode 6: Beef between Jakob and  Narve Nordas.

31:23 - Why wasn’t the Monaco DL 1500m highlighted?

38:56 - Ingebrigtsen family at the Nike house + thoughts on the series' editorial style. 

42:26 - How the season ends + what comes next.

Mentioned in this episode…

Follow: CITIUS MAG Reddit page.

Watch: Jakob Ingebrigtsen Breaks Down 2024 Bowerman Mile Race + Tactics

Listen: Keeping Up with the Ingebrigtsens | Recapping 'Ingebrigtsen - Born To Run,’ Episodes 3 and 4

Listen: Keeping Up with the Ingebrigtsens | Recapping 'Ingebrigtsen - Born To Run,’ Episodes 1 and 2

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

One year after the late Kelvin Kiptum obliterated Eliud Kipchoge’s previous world record by 34 seconds, running an almost unfathomable 2:00:35, Ruth Chepngetich topped that. Her astounding time of 2:09:56 is one of the greatest running performances in history, makes her the first woman to run under 2:10 in a marathon, and lopped one minute and 57 seconds off Tigist Assefa’s old world record.

On the men’s side, Kenya’s John Korir notched his first-ever World Marathon Majors victory in 2:02:44. (What a time for the sport of marathoning we’re in right now, where a 2:02 showing is basically a footnote!)

Hosts:

Chris Chavez | @chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Preet Majithia | @prm_32 on X

Time Stamps:

Ruth Chepngetich:

1:31 - Breaking down her 2:09:56 world record

9:40 - More on her running history + Chicago victory 

13:52 - Stats + analysis on her record

Skepticism surrounding Chepngetich’s world record:

19:01 - Training factors

22:27 - Potential for doping

25:48 - Chepngetich being questioned in the press conference

37:19 - Language barrier

39:35 - The press center during the marathon

American women:

41:21 - Susanna Sullivan, 7th/1st American, 2:21:57

42:57 - Lindsay Flanagan, 9th/2nd American, 2:23:31

44:33 - Keira D’Amato dropping out due to injury 

45:13 - Emma Bates, 11th/3rd American, 2:24:00

Men’s race:

47:18 - John Korir, 1st in 2:02:44

50:06 - More on the top finishers

American men:

53:25 - CJ Albertson (7th/1st American, 2:08:17) and Zach Panning (10th/2nd American, 2:09:16)

Final thoughts:

56:15 - Feedback on the broadcast

1:06:29 - CITIUS live at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon

Mentioned in this episode…

Read: Parting Thoughts From The 2024 Chicago Marathon: Ruth Chepngetich Destroys Women’s World Record In 2:09:56 at Chicago Marathon

Read: Tweet by Steve Magness comparing Ruth Chepngetich’s world record to equivalent performances

Watch: Interviews with some of the top stars from the Chicago Marathon

Watch: Chicago Marathon full replay

Subscribe for free: CITIUS MAG Newsletter

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

"We’ll see what happens. We’ll all find out on Sunday.”

A brief chat with Keira D'Amato, Emma Bates and Sara Hall before the 2024 Chicago Marathon.

Unfortunately did not have the time to catch Betsy Saina.

From our race preview on CITIUSMAG.com: The American showdown may become a chase for Emily Sisson’s American record, as three of the five fastest women in U.S. history will be on the start line alongside 2021 Chicago runner-up Emma Bates, Chavez’s pick to take down the record. Keira D’Amato, who held this record for just under nine months in 2022, will be racing 26.2 miles for the first time since moving to Utah to train with coach Ed Eyestone. We won’t know until Sunday exactly what her and Eyestone’s race plan looks like, but don’t be surprised if she’s in the mix for the top American crown.

2024 U.S. leader Betsy Saina, whose fifth-place finish in Tokyo in 2:19:17 was a huge leap forward, figures to be a prominent player as well. 2016 Olympic 1500m champion Matthew Centrowitz is set to be pacing this pack as they go after 2:18:29, so that will be something to keep an eye on even if the leaders are well ahead.

Chris Chavez and Preet Majithia preview the top athletes to watch for at the 2024 edition of the Chicago Marathon on Sunday, October 13th. We break down the men’s and women’s elite fields, the top Americans to keep an eye on, and why the women’s American marathon record may be under threat. 

Hosts:

Chris Chavez | @chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Preet Majithia | @prm_32 on X

Time Stamps:

0:56 - Recap of the 2023 Chicago Marathon.

4:32 - Biggest marathon successes throughout the fall of 2023.  

7:06 - Women’s elite field preview.

15:02 - Elite American women preview.

23:16 - Context on pre-race interviews with elite marathoners.

25:50 - Matthew Centrowitz pacing the women’s American record. 

29:14 - Men’s elite field preview.

35:35 - Elite American men preview.

38:53 - Parting thoughts on the Chicago Marathon.

Mentioned in this episode…

Listen: Betsy Saina’s episode on the CITIUS MAG Podcast after she ran 2:19:17 at the 2024 Tokyo Marathon.

Read: Keira D’Amato and Matthew Centrowtiz training together to prepare for D’Amato’s American record attempt in Chicago.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

“It was an overwhelming feeling of emotion. I had put London in a box in the corner of my heart, had shielded it up, stored it away. In the weeks since, it's been trying to unpack a lot of those feelings and the gratitude that 12 years later, there’s actually justice coming.”

Russian middle-distance runner Tatyana Tomashova may be stripped of her 2012 Olympic 1500m silver medal after being found guilty of a second anti-doping violation and being banned for 10 years. American Shannon Rowbury, who originally finished sixth in the 1500m Olympic final at the London Olympics, may receive the bronze medal after three women ahead of her have been disqualified for anti-doping offenses.

 The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) announced an arbiter determined Tomashova is now banned for 10 years and lost all her results from June 21, 2012 to Jan. 3, 2015 after her out-of-competition drug test samples from June 2012 and July 2012 were re-tested and come back positive for performance-enhancing drugs.

Tomashova initially finished fourth in the 1500m final at the London Olympics.

Turkey’s Asli Cakir Alptekin and Gamze Bulut, who were the original 1500m Olympic gold and silver medalists, have also been disqualified for doping. Bahrain’s Maryam Yusuf Jamal has been upgraded from bronze to gold. Tomashova was upgraded to silver. Abeba Aregawi was moved up from fifth place to bronze.

Rowbury would be upgraded from fourth to bronze. This would have been the second global championship medal for Rowbury in her career after her 2009 World Championship 1500m bronze medal and would have made her the first American woman to medal in the 1500m at the Olympic Games.

You can read all about the case here: https://citiusmag.com/articles/tatyana-tomashova-will-lose-2012-olympic-medal-after-doping-ban

Time Stamps:

4:09 - Initial reactions after learning she will be upgraded to 1500m bronze from the 2012 Olympics.

10:11 - Finding out the news during the Paris Olympics.

12:45 - Memories associated with London following the 2012 Olympics: 2017 Worlds, getting engaged, upcoming vacation. 

14:44 - Rewatching the full race for the first time only a few weeks ago. 

17:43 - How she set goals for the 2012 London Olympics.

23:45 - Letting go of doping suspicions towards competitors at the Olympics.

27:16 - The balance between advocating for clean sport and being suspicious of potential dopers.

30:00 - Breaking down the 2012 Olympic 1500m final.

39:03 - Thoughts after finishing the race.

44:55 - Improving the protocol for alerting athletes about competitors being banned.

51:18 - Recapping the final few years of her pro career. 

57:57 - What she likes and dislikes about marathon training.

1:01:02 - Choosing to be optimistic about the sport.

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LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

HOW TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

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21-year-old Muzala Samukonga won Zambia’s only medal at the Paris Olympics, which was the country's first since the 1996 Games in Atlanta. He rose to prominence at the 2022 Commonwealth Games when he stormed to gold in 44.66 and beat out Great Britain’s Matthew Hudson-Smith, who took silver in Paris.

There isn’t a ton on the internet on Samukonga so that’s why it was nice when our very own Anderson Emerole had the chance to chat with him in Brussels just after he signed a contract to join Grand Slam Track as a 200m/400m racer in 2025. It’s life-changing money for Samukonga, who came from nothing.

You’ll hear from him and his coach Douglas Kalembo on his poor beginnings and how he’s become one of the best 400m runners in the world.

You can read more about Samukonga and all of the other recent Grand Slam Track Racer signings at CITIUSMAG.com

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LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

HOW TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

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 We actually recorded this while we were in Paris but had to keep it under wraps for a bit. This was just a few days after Alison Dos Santos earned his second Olympic bronze medal in the men’s 400m hurdles. He went on to win the 2024 Diamond League title and finished the year with a personal best of 46.29, which puts him at No. 3 on the all-time list behind Karsten Warholm and Rai Benjamin.

We talk a bit about the state of the men’s 400m hurdles. His experience in Paris and his excitement around becoming the first South American athlete to sign with Grand Slam Track. He will be contesting the 400m and 400m hurdles four times per year at the four Slams in 2025 for the inaugural season of Michael Johnson’s professional track league.

You can read more about Dos Santos and all of the Grand Slam Track recent signings over at CITIUSMAG.com.

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LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

HOW TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

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"Running is for everyone and that's so important for me as a person. One of the coolest things about the marathon is you could be running on the same course as people breaking world records. You have trained differently but you have put so much of yourself into it. You're not running a marathon alone – your spouse, children, co-workers or friends know that you've been training really hard and given up a lot to make it to the start line, push through the marathon and get to the finish. That's truly really important to me...Finding running looks different for everyone."

In less than four years of marathoning, Gabi Rooker has been a rising star for the U.S. Last year, she was the fourth American at the 2023 Chicago Marathon with an impressive 2:24:35 personal best. She went on to finish 19th at the U.S. Olympic Trials.

With a background in competitive gymnastics, Gabi has taken to the roads super well since her marathon debut in 2021. She spent time elevating her training as part of the Dreamweaver program, which was a program created by Nike to support female athletes aiming for the Olympic Trials qualifying time of 2:37 – .all while balancing her career as a physician assistant in Minneapolis. The performance in Chicago was so good that she signed a pro contract with Nike ahead of the Olympic Trials.

In this episode, we unpack her race in Orlando but also how she’s adjusted to a part-time role as a physician’s assistant and being a professional runner. She shares a bit about her training and preparation heading into Chicago and what part of her story has resonated with the masses.

Time Stamps:

3:10 - How her current marathon build compares to previous builds. 

4:13 - How her life changed after her breakout race at the 2023 Chicago Marathon. 

6:30 - Switching to part-time work, finding an agent, signing with Nike.

9:27 - Her progression from her marathon debut in 2021.

11:25 - How Nike’s Project Dreamweaver aided her improvement.

15:29 - Her training camp in Texas prior to the 2024 Olympic Trials. 

20:57 - What her race plan + expectations were heading into the Trials.

23:13 - The support she experienced while racing at the Trials. 

26:13 - Biggest takeaways from the Trials. 

28:22 - How being a former gymnast has helped her running career.

31:17 - Training professionally in Minnesota.

33:30 - Her race plan heading into the 2024 Chicago Marathon. 

35:13 - Goals for Chicago. 

36:24 - Parting messages to those who hope to follow in her footsteps. 

37:41 - Being inducted into UW La Crosse’s Hall of Fame.

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LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

HOW TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

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Chris Chavez and Preet Majithia recap the third and fourth episodes of the Ingebrigtsen brothers’ new documentary series, "Ingebrigtsen - Born To Run.” Episode 3 focused on Henrik and Filip’s families and personal development. Episode 4 explored Jakob and Josh Kerr’s rivalry and how it unfolded over the 2024 season. We wrap up with what we’re looking forward to most in episodes 5 and 6.

Time Stamps:

Episode 3

2:38 - The focus on Henrik and Filip’s personal development

4:50 - The toll of the brothers’ intense training 

6:37 - Spotlight on Henrik’s wife 

7:19 - Jakob’s season opener at Pre Classic 

9:21 - The episode’s focus on family

Episode 4

10:49 - Overview + Jakob vs. Josh Kerr at the Pre Classic Press Conference 

14:03 - Jakob vs. Josh rivalry timeline 

19:25 - Who started the rivalry? 

22:42 - The problem with the rivalry 

25:38 - Remainder of episode 4 + what to look forward to in next episodes 

Mentioned in this episode…

Listen: Keeping Up with the Ingebrigtsens | Recapping 'Ingebrigtsen - Born To Run,’ Episodes 1 and 2

Read: Jakob Ingebrigtsen vs Josh Kerr Rivalry Timeline: From Budapest To Paris

Watch: Jakob Ingebrigtsen vs. Josh Kerr vs. Yared Nuguse | Prefontaine Classic Bowerman Mile Press Conference

Hosts:

Chris Chavez | @chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Preet Majithia | @prm_32 on X

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

NEW BALANCE: Experience the perfect blend of comfort and performance with the New Balance SC Trainer v3. Ideal for marathon training, it offers a firmer, more responsive ride with enhanced cushioning. Whether it's easy runs or uptempo workouts, the SC Trainer v3 has you covered. Discover more at NewBalance.com/Running.

LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

HOW TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

💻 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CITIUSMAG.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more podcasts, articles, videos and more. Track and field storytelling all in one place⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

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This week, Chris Chavez and Preet Majithia break down the first edition of the women’s-only track event, Athlos NYC. They recap the meet’s prize money structure compared to Diamond League meets and Grand Slam Track and share how Athlos may impact the pro scene in coming years. They also unpack some of the event’s unique elements, like the interactive broadcast, fashion show walk-ins, and smaller bib sizes. 

You can read our full Athlos recap on CITIUSMAG.com here. 

Time Stamps:

1:53 - Athlos overview.

3:31 - Broadcast: what made it unique + how it’s helping grow the U.S. audience for track.

9:00 - Breaking down the meet’s prize money structure.

13:13 - Diamond League responding to increased prize money from Athlos.

15:03 - How Grand Slam Track’s schedule will stack up with the DL season. 

21:44 - More highlights: athlete experience, NYC ads, fashion show walk-ins.

23:31 - How Athlos is creating more track and field stars.

25:17 - Men’s vs. women’s pro contracts in track and field.

26:26 - Smaller bibs, breaking down the 100mH controversy, events recap.

30:08 - Pros and cons of hosting in Icahn Stadium.

32:53 - Parting thoughts on the first edition of Athlos.

Hosts:

Chris Chavez | @chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Preet Majithia | @prm_32 on X

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

NEW BALANCE: Experience the perfect blend of comfort and performance with the New Balance SC Trainer v3. Ideal for marathon training, it offers a firmer, more responsive ride with enhanced cushioning. Whether it's easy runs or uptempo workouts, the SC Trainer v3 has you covered. Discover more at NewBalance.com/Running.

LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

HOW TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

💻 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CITIUSMAG.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more podcasts, articles, videos and more. Track and field storytelling all in one place⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

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Chris Chavez and Isaac Wood, CITIUS MAG's cross country expert and founder of The Wood Report (2012-2022), preview the 2024 NCAA cross country season. Join us for our predictions, analysis, and takeaways as the season gets underway, including: top teams and individual contenders to watch for, most improved programs, and lots more.

Host: Chris Chavez | @chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Isaac Wood | @isaacew on Instagram 

Time Stamps:

Intro:

3:33 - Roster limits + scholarship changes; Impact of conference realignment on cross country. 

Women's Preview:

7:28 - NC State vs. NAU for team title.

9:32 - NC State: how this year’s team compares to 2023. 

13:41 - NAU: top returners, freshmen, transfers.

16:48 - Context on USTFCCCA rankings.

17:34 - Most improved teams: Gonzaga, Utah Valley, Providence.

23:00 - Teams with recent coaching changes to watch: UNC, New Mexico, Northwestern.

25:31 - Teams outside top 30 ranking to watch: Clemson, CBU.

27:21 - Podium contending teams: Notre Dame, Oregon, Washington.

30:07 - Individual title contenders.

Men’s Preview: 

33:29 - OSU vs. NAU for team title.

40:48 - Podium contending teams: Arkansas, Iowa State, BYU, UNC.

44:25 - Biggest step back: FSU, Tennessee; Most improved: Portland, Notre Dame, 

48:15 - New to rankings: Alabama, Oregon, Washington.

52:41 - Kenyan stars from Texas Tech.

56:58 - Individual title contenders.

1:02:14 - Ranking the top finishers. 

1:05:44 - Quick Nuttycombe Invite preview. 

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

NEW BALANCE: Experience the perfect blend of comfort and performance with the New Balance SC Trainer v3. Ideal for marathon training, it offers a firmer, more responsive ride with enhanced cushioning. Whether it's easy runs or uptempo workouts, the SC Trainer v3 has you covered. Discover more at NewBalance.com/Running.

LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

HOW TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

💻 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CITIUSMAG.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more podcasts, articles, videos and more. Track and field storytelling all in one place⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

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Chris Chavez and Preet Majithia dive into the first two episodes of the Ingebrigtsen brothers’ new documentary series, "Ingebrigtsen - Born To Run.” We break down how it builds off the "Team Ingebrigtsen" YouTube series from 2016-2021, discuss the notable absence of Gjert following his abuse allegations, highlight Elisabeth’s personality, and talk details on Henrik and Philip’s storylines. We wrap up with some of our hopes and expectations for the series.

Time Stamps:

6:11 - Details on “Team Ingebrigtsen” YouTube series from 2016.

10:39 - Context for new series: “Ingebrigtsen - Born To Run.”

13:23 - Gjert Ingebrigtsen absent from series + context on situation. 

22:49 - Elisabeth, Jakob’s wife: role + personality in the show.

28:21 - Jakob’s car collection.

30:00 - Pace lights installed at the brothers’ training stadium for practices.

32:06 - Henrik’s storyline + role in the show.

34:31 - Father theme throughout the first two episodes.

40:33 - Key parts of episode two: training in Flagstaff. 

42:04 - Filip's character development. 

46:46 - Ingebrigtsen brothers’ training group structure. 

52:43 - Hopes + expectations for the series.

Hosts:

Chris Chavez | @chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Preet Majithia | @prm_32 on X

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

NEW BALANCE: Experience the perfect blend of comfort and performance with the New Balance SC Trainer v3. Ideal for marathon training, it offers a firmer, more responsive ride with enhanced cushioning. Whether it's easy runs or uptempo workouts, the SC Trainer v3 has you covered. Discover more at NewBalance.com/Running.

LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

HOW TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

💻 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CITIUSMAG.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more podcasts, articles, videos and more. Track and field storytelling all in one place⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

🎙️ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or comment/follow on Spotify.

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This week, Anderson Emerole and Preet Majithia recap the top performances at the Brussels Diamond League Final. They discuss everything from Faith Kipyegon and Jakob Ingebrigtsen’s dominance in the 1500m races to Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s standout 400m/200m double in the invite sections. Anderson and Preet also break down Jakob’s half marathon debut two days after he won the Brussels Diamond League 1500m and share a few updates on Grand Slam Track.

Time Stamps:

2:49 - Behind-the-scenes at the Brussels DL: mixed zone, post-meet party.

10:40 - Analysis on SML’s 400m/200m double.

20:24 - Women’s 100m: Julien Alfred ends her season victorious.

25:34 - Men’s 1500m: rematch among top contenders.

29:35 - Recapping the rest of day one.

37:34 - Women’s 400mH: Femke Bol back on top.

41:12 - Men’s 200m: Kenny Bednarek breaks through + Letstile Tebogo’s rise to stardom. 

47:21 - Recapping the rest of day two.

48:15 - Women’s 1500m: Faith Kipyegon’s dominance + what’s next for her.

54:47 - Jakob’s half marathon debut in Copenhagen.

1:02:20 - Updates on Grand Slam Track.

Listen to Anderson’s interview with Grand Slam Track CEO, Michael Johnson.

Hosts:

Anderson Emerole | @atkoeme on Instagram

Preet Majithia | prm_32 on X

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

NEW BALANCE: Experience the perfect blend of comfort and performance with the New Balance SC Trainer v3. Ideal for marathon training, it offers a firmer, more responsive ride with enhanced cushioning. Whether it's easy runs or uptempo workouts, the SC Trainer v3 has you covered. Discover more at NewBalance.com/Running.

LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

HOW TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

💻 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CITIUSMAG.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more podcasts, articles, videos and more. Track and field storytelling all in one place⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

🎙️ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or comment/follow on Spotify.

🎥 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to the CITIUS MAG YouTube channel⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/CitiusMag/⁠

"Paris revealed a lot to us, and we got busy talking to athletes and agents, helping them understand what we're trying to build and how they can be a part of this. It's been a great response to what we're building, we always thought that would be the case. The proof now is that athletes have shown they are excited about this and are excited to be a part of the league."

Anderson Emerole caught up with Grand Slam Track Commissioner Michael Johnson live from Brussels to catch up on recent developments with his new professional track league, Grand Slam Track. Michael shares his excitement for the growing roster of top-tier racers and the positive response from athletes eager to join the league.

He also discusses the role of broadcasting in expanding the sport's reach, including ongoing negotiations for the best partners, and the importance of including new technology and content creators.

Michael also shares insights on upcoming host cities, the balance between Grand Slam Track and other major leagues, and the importance of securing high-profile athletes. Tune in for a look at how Grand Slam Track is shaping the future of athletics.

For more, you can listen to our first episode with Michael Johnson where he announces Grand Slam Track, discusses the league’s structure, reveals prize money details, and explains how it all works.

Listen here on Spotify.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

NEW BALANCE: Experience the perfect blend of comfort and performance with the New Balance SC Trainer v3. Ideal for marathon training, it offers a firmer, more responsive ride with enhanced cushioning. Whether it's easy runs or uptempo workouts, the SC Trainer v3 has you covered. Discover more at NewBalance.com/Running.

LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

HOW TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

💻 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CITIUSMAG.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more podcasts, articles, videos and more. Track and field storytelling all in one place⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

🎙️ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or comment/follow on Spotify.

🎥 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to the CITIUS MAG YouTube channel⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/CitiusMag/⁠⁠

"You’re going to have stuff go wrong regardless. This year I had a lot of stuff go wrong, but it’s not necessarily about not having anything go wrong. It’s about how you respond to those issues that will inherently come up.”

Today’s guest is Ryan Crouser. Ryan just won his third straight Olympic gold medal in the men’s shot put in Paris, becoming the first shot putter in history to win three Olympic titles. He did so with a mark of 22.90m, which is the second best in Olympic history, behind only his performance from Tokyo in 2021. The season wasn’t easy for Ryan after winning World Indoors in Glasgow in March, he battled through pectoral and elbow injuries throughout most of the spring and the early summer that forced him to open his season at the U.S. Olympic Trials. Despite this adversity, he still came out on top when it mattered most, and now he’s chasing something big in the last few Diamond League meets of the year.

In this episode, he talks through the recovery process after picking up an elbow injury at the World Indoor Championships in March and then tearing his pectoral muscle about a month later. Ryan wasn’t able to open his season until the U.S. Trials, but he picked up the win there to secure his spot in Paris. The Olympic final was never in doubt, as his first throw was good enough to win the competition by almost half-a-meter, and rain in the final three rounds stymied a comeback attempt from his rivals. His third straight Olympic gold makes him only the fourth thrower to ever win three Olympic titles.

With the highest-pressure competition of the year out of the way, Ryan is ready to produce something massive, closing out his season with six meets in the span of three weeks.

Host: Paul Hof-Mahoney | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pauliethrows⁠ on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Guest: Ryan Crouser | ⁠@rcrouser⁠ on Instagram

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

NEW BALANCE: Experience the perfect blend of comfort and performance with the New Balance SC Trainer v3. Ideal for marathon training, it offers a firmer, more responsive ride with enhanced cushioning. Whether it's easy runs or uptempo workouts, the SC Trainer v3 has you covered. Discover more at NewBalance.com/Running.

LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠⁠⁠⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

HOW TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

💻 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CITIUSMAG.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more podcasts, articles, videos and more. Track and field storytelling all in one place⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

🎙️ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or comment/follow on Spotify.

🎥 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to the CITIUS MAG YouTube channel⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/CitiusMag/⁠⁠

"I genuinely told myself that I was born for it. On the start line, I kept saying that to myself. I was like, ‘I was born for this.’ It just made me feel like I was totally meant to be there, and as long as I was going to be brave, I would be rewarded."

My guest for today’s episode is Georgia Bell just a month or so after her first appearance on the show where we detailed her remarkable comeback to the sport. Well…now she’s an Olympic bronze medalist in the 1500m. 

In the Olympic final, she shocked many – not really the CITIUS MAG crew – by running a British record of 3:52.61. She was just 0.05 seconds shy of a silver medal, but her perfectly timed push in the final stretch earned her a place on the podium, overtaking Ethiopia's Diribe Welteji by a mere 0.14 seconds.

As Faith Kipyegon claimed her third consecutive title, Bell’s remarkable performance capped an unforgettable night for Team GB. If you haven’t listened to her first episode go back and do that because this one picks up right where we left off in her season build-up to her first Olympic Games and and how she made history in the race of a lifetime.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Guest: Georgia Bell | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@georgiabelltheduathlete on Instagram⁠⁠⁠

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

NEW BALANCE: Experience the perfect blend of comfort and performance with the New Balance SC Trainer v3. Ideal for marathon training, it offers a firmer, more responsive ride with enhanced cushioning. Whether it's easy runs or uptempo workouts, the SC Trainer v3 has you covered. Discover more at NewBalance.com/Running.

LEVER MOVEMENT: Elevate your running with the LEVER system, just like Olympian Eilish McColgan. Reduce impact on your joints, boost your training volume, and recover faster with this portable, easy-to-use treadmill system. ⁠⁠Save 20% with code CITIUS20 at LEVERMOVEMENT.COM⁠⁠.

OLIPOP: For the past year, we’ve redefined Olipop as more than just a healthy drink known for its gut microbiome with a low sugar content and a much better alternative to regular soda. You know there are more than 16 flavors, including classic root beer, cherry cola, and lemon-lime. You know it as The Runner’s Soda. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Get 25% off your orders by using code CITIUS25 at drinkolipop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠.

HOW TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

💻 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠CITIUSMAG.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more podcasts, articles, videos and more. Track and field storytelling all in one place⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

🎙️ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or comment/follow on Spotify.

🎥 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to the CITIUS MAG YouTube channel⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/CitiusMag/⁠