The Running Story | Marathon Handbook News

NYC Marathon's New Lottery, Stroller Mile Record & Cambridge Professor's Running Claims Unravel

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 12:47:17 -0700

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the five biggest stories in the running world. The New York Road Runners have quietly added a new lottery to their guaranteed-entry 9+1 program, making it even harder to get a guaranteed bib into the New York City Marathon. Grand Slam Track founder Michael Johnson breaks his silence for the first time since the league collapsed into bankruptcy, giving his first interview since GST folded owing athletes and creditors millions of dollars.

Plus: a runner just set the fastest stroller mile in history on the Guardian Mile course, a viral video shows a Mexico City Marathon bandit runner being tackled by a race official, and Cambridge sociology professor Jason Arday's wild endurance-running claims are being called into question as his academic record comes under fire.

Chapters:
00:00 Intro
02:14 NYRR adds a new lottery to the 9+1 guaranteed-entry program for the NYC Marathon
09:29 Michael Johnson breaks his silence on Grand Slam Track's bankruptcy and collapse
17:55 New world record: the fastest mile ever run while pushing a stroller (4:17)
21:46 Viral video: Mexico City Marathon bandit runner tackled by a race official
25:39 Cambridge professor Jason Arday's wild running claims come under scrutiny
38:57 Outro

Article links:
marathonhandbook.com/nyrr-9plus1-eligibility-drawing-nyc-marathon
marathonhandbook.com/michael-johnson-grand-slam-track-collapse
marathonhandbook.com/biebelhausen-4-17-stroller-mile
marathonhandbook.com/runner-knocked-down-mexico-city-marathon

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Josh Kerr Wins Gold, Alpine FKT & Brazil's Missing Marathoner Found

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 16:04:06 -0700

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down five of the biggest stories in running: Josh Kerr's emotional "Miracle Mile 2" win at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Sophie Woods' jaw-dropping overall fastest known time (FKT) across the Via Alpina, the safe return of Brazil's missing marathoner Daniel do Nascimento, both course records falling at the brutally hot Badwater 135, and Sebastian Sawe's surprising race announcement for after Berlin.

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:59 Josh Kerr wins "Miracle Mile 2" at the Commonwealth Games
5:05 Sophie Woods sets the overall Alpine FKT on the Via Alpina
9:20 Brazil's missing marathoner Daniel do Nascimento found safe
15:16 Course records fall at Badwater 135
19:34 Sebastian Sawe's surprise post-Berlin race in South Korea
23:37 Outro

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Boston Marathon Adds a Lottery, Sub-2 Marathon Officially Ratified & UTMB Backlash

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 11:44:07 -0700

Boston Marathon just added a second-chance lottery for runners stuck in the qualifying gray zone... and that's just the start.

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the BAA's new 1,000-spot lottery for rejected BQ qualifiers, Sebastian Sawe and Tigst Assefa's newly ratified world records from London (plus why Jacob Kiplimo's half marathon record is still stuck in limbo), Aurélien Sanchez's stunning new Pacific Crest Trail FKT, Hunter Woodhall's controversial disqualification at the USATF Para Outdoor Championships, and the Chamonix mayor's push to shrink UTMB after residents said they "despise" the race.

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
1:30 Boston Marathon's new lottery for rejected BQ qualifiers, explained
10:08 Sebastian Sawe & Tigst Assefa's world records officially ratified
16:49 Aurélien Sanchez sets a new Pacific Crest Trail FKT
20:20 Hunter Woodhall disqualified at USATF Para Outdoor Championships
23:53 Chamonix's mayor wants to shrink UTMB — residents "despise" the race
32:58 Outro

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Chicago Marathon 2026 Elite Field Preview

Marathon Handbook — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 13:16:16 -0700

Jacob Kiplimo returns to defend his Chicago Marathon title, but can he break two hours without Kejelcha and Sawe pushing him like they did in London? Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the full 2026 Chicago Marathon elite field: the men's race, the wide-open women's field led by Brigid Kosgei and dark horse Sharon Lokedi, the American record chases on both sides, Galen Rupp's masters record bid, and their bold winner predictions.

Chapters:
0:00 Intro: previewing the 2026 Chicago Marathon elite fields
1:05 Can Jacob Kiplimo run sub-2 in Chicago?
3:10 Men's elite field breakdown (Kiprotich, Mengesha, Mateiko, Takele)
5:15 The Nike Alphafly 4 shoe story
6:58 American men's record chase: Hicks, Maury, Clayton Young
9:10 Galen Rupp's masters record bid
10:13 Women's elite field: Brigid Kosgei headlines
11:00 Why Sharon Lokedi could be the real favorite
14:30 Hellen Obiri, Ruth Chepngetich and the tainted world record
16:30 American women: Sarah Hall, Des Linden chase the masters record
19:41 Susanna Sullivan and the top American storylines
20:57 Predictions: women's race winner
22:57

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👉 Tell us in the comments: does Kiplimo run sub-2, and who wins the women's race?

Josh Kerr & Keely Hodgkinson's HUGE Wins, New Running ADHD Study + Track & Field Broadcast Rules

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 13:36:48 -0700

Josh Kerr just did the unthinkable: he broke the men's mile world record in London, erasing Hicham El Guerrouj's 27-year-old mark.

Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the race, plus the rest of this week's biggest stories in running: Keely Hodgkinson's statement win (and new Nike collection), Conner and Kylie Mantz welcoming their first child days after Kylie's jaw-dropping pregnant mile, a new study linking ADHD and endurance running, and the controversial new broadcast rules shaking up European track and field. Jesse also reveals her results from an all-out 1K time trial attempt.

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
2:47 Josh Kerr breaks the mile world record in London
7:41 Keely Hodgkinson's huge 800m win + new Nike collection
13:11 Conner & Kylie Mantz welcome their first child
16:54 New study links ADHD and endurance running
20:01 Europe's controversial new track & field broadcast rules
27:25 Jessy's all-out 1K time trial result

Articles Links:
https://marathonhandbook.com/hodgkinson-broeders-bol-london-800m/
https://marathonhandbook.com/kylie-mantz-baby-william/
https://marathonhandbook.com/kylie-mantz-pregnant-mile/
https://marathonhandbook.com/keely-hodgkinson-nike-signature-collection/
https://marathonhandbook.com/ebu-womens-athletics-coverage-guidelines/

Dauwalter’s Brutal Hardrock Win, Kipchoge in Brazil, and Why Messi Never Runs

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:46:49 -0700

Courtney Dauwalter breaks her own Hardrock 100 course record while sick on the trail, and Ludo Pommeret wins his third straight at age 50. Eliud Kipchoge’s seven continent world tour rolls through Brazil. Emmanuel Wanyonyi breaks a 1K world record that stood since 1999. Barkley founder Laz Lake voids two backyard ultra world records. And Jessy went down a Strava rabbit hole to find out which Tour de France riders and World Cup players actually run, including one stat about Lionel Messi that will change how you watch him.

Drop your prediction in the comments: Jessy is running an all-out 1K this week. Guess her time!

Chapters:
00:00 This week’s stories snapshot
03:40 Hardrock 100: two course records and a brutal day for Dauwalter
08:50 Kipchoge’s world tour stops in Brazil
14:31 A 1K world record falls after 27 years
18:41 Laz Lake voids the backyard ultra world records
22:50 Do Tour de France riders and World Cup players actually run?
26:43 The Messi stat
30:33 Big announcement: a second episode every week

Read Jessy’s reporting on all of this week’s stories at marathonhandbook.com

Articles referenced:
https://marathonhandbook.com/kipchoge-porto-alegre-world-tour/
https://marathonhandbook.com/how-fifa-players-train-lessons-for-runners/
https://marathonhandbook.com/world-cup-players-strava-census/
https://marathonhandbook.com/tour-de-france-riders-who-run/
https://marathonhandbook.com/pommeret-hardrock-100-third-win/
https://marathonhandbook.com/wanyonyi-1000m-world-record/
https://marathonhandbook.com/running-with-partner-vs-alone/

Subscribe to The Running Story podcast feed on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and leave us a five star rating and review!

7-Eleven Sues Nike, a Sub-2:30 Treadmill Marathon, & Kipchoge's Wife Runs Again

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:36:31 -0700

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down five huge stories from the running world: 7-Eleven's lawsuit against Nike over a suspiciously familiar Air Max 95 colorway, Eliud Kipchoge's wife Grace Segut lining up for her second marathon, an American's jaw-dropping sub-2:30 marathon workout on a Planet Fitness treadmill, the new "lactate gel" fueling technology taking over marathons and the Tour de France, and the stacked elite fields just announced for the December Valencia Marathon.

Chapters:
0:00 This Week's Biggest Running Stories
1:27 7-Eleven Sues Nike Over Air Max 95 "Slurpee" Colorway
4:34 Kipchoge's Wife Grace Segut Returns for Porto Alegre Marathon
7:25 Sub-2:30 Marathon... on a Treadmill?! Vincent Morey's Wild Workout
12:14 Lactate Gels Explained: The New Marathon Fueling Hack
19:25 Valencia Marathon 2026 Elite Field: Tigst Assefa, John Korir & More
25:50 Your Predictions & Final Thoughts

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Let us know in the comments: would you try a lactate gel in your next race, and who do you think comes out on top in Valencia this fall?

This Will Be The Race Of The Year

Marathon Handbook — Sat, 04 Jul 2026 18:37:04 -0700

Valencia just dropped its elite headliners for the December 2026 marathon, and it might be the biggest race of the year. Thomas Watson and Jessy Carveth break down why Valencia, not a World Marathon Major, has become the sport's premier speed showcase, built around a €1 million bonus for anyone who breaks the world record.

On the men's side, Yomif Kejelcha (runner-up to Sebastian Sawe's sub-2 in London) is set for a showdown with defending champion John Korir, fresh off his Boston course record. Alexander Mutiso and Dawit Wolde lurk as dark horses. On the women's side, all eyes are on Fotyen Tesfay, who ran the second-fastest marathon in history (2:10:51) in her Barcelona debut, and defending champ Joyciline Jepkosgei.

Thomas and Jessy dig into the tech arms race (super shoes, lactate gels), why organizer Juan Roig (the billionaire behind Mercadona) has built Valencia around pure speed instead of major-marathon spectacle, and why Nike's biggest names are notably absent from the field. Plus: quick-fire predictions, and Thomas reveals he's got his own bib for race day.

The Valencia Marathon takes place December 6, 2026.

Chapters:
00:00 Why Valencia could be the race of 2026
00:50 Valencia announces its elite headliners
02:25 Setting up a Kejelcha vs. Korir showdown
04:08 Two near-misses with marathon history
05:15 How Kejelcha is building toward December
06:17 Super shoes, lactate gels and the tech arms race
07:28 Dark horse alert: Alexander Mutiso
08:16 The women's field: Fotyen Tesfay chases the world record
09:41 Wiping the slate clean on a tainted world record
10:37 Why Valencia isn't chasing World Major status
11:34 Juan Roig's €1M bonus and his dream for the city
12:16 Meet Juan Roig, the "Sam Walton of Spain"
13:57 Pure racing over spectacle — and a new ballot system
16:30 Quick-fire predictions: the men's race
17:25 Quick-fire predictions: the women's race
18:21 Will more big names join before the October field release?
19:01 Nike's curious absence from the elite list
20:03 Thomas's own Valencia bib, and closing thoughts

Jessy's Interview:
https://marathonhandbook.com/inside-the-two-year-courtship-that-brought-yomif-kejelcha-to-the-valencia-marathon/

Sydney Marathon 2026 Elite Preview: Jepchirchir, Simbu & Predictions

Marathon Handbook — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 14:32:45 -0700

The 2026 TCS Sydney Marathon just dropped its elite fields and it's the deepest lineup in the race's history. Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down every big name in the men's and women's fields, the biggest storylines heading into Sydney's second year as a World Marathon Major, and their way-too-early predictions for who wins on August 30.

Reigning world champions Alphonce Simbu (Tanzania) and Peres Jepchirchir (Kenya) headline both fields, going up against defending champion Hailemaryam Kiros, course-record chaser Sisay Lemma, and a stacked chase pack. Michael and Jessy dig into whether Sydney's 2:06:06 and 2:18:22 course records are about to fall, why this field proves Sydney is maturing into a true World Marathon Major, and why the Sydney Opera House finish line might be the most beautiful in the sport.

Chapters:
0:00 Intro: Sydney's Deepest Elite Field Yet
1:16 Men's Field: Sisay Lemma, Simbu & the Depth Chart
6:44 Men's Storyline: Is the Course Record in Danger?
7:44 Women's Field: Peres Jepchirchir Headlines
13:46 Women's Storyline: Why Jepchirchir Is the Favorite
15:00 Big Picture: Sydney Matures as a World Marathon Major
18:13 Best-Case Scenario for Race Organizers
20:30 Growing Australia's Elite Marathon Pipeline
23:00 Chasing Faster Times: Comparing the Majors
24:21 The Most Beautiful Finish Line in the Majors?
29:40 Way-Too-Early Predictions: Who Wins Sydney?
33:00 Outro & How to Follow Our Sydney Coverage

Western States 100 World Records, IOC Pays Olympic Athletes & Upcoming IKEA Marathon

Marathon Handbook — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:18:38 -0700

Another big week in running news! Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the wild weekend at the Western States 100 where Vincent Bouillard became the first man under 14 hours and Jen Lichter took down Courtney Dauwalter's course record in her 100-mile debut. Plus: new Backyard Ultra world records out of Russia, the first-ever marathon held inside an IKEA store, the IOC's new $10,000 athlete grant program, and Tokyo Marathon's record-breaking $170,000 prize purse.

Read our op-ed on the IOC president here:
https://marathonhandbook.com/opinion-kristy-coventry-ioc-president-seb-coe-putin-bach/

Chapters:
0:00 Intro: Michael and Jessy swap continents
0:55 This week's top stories
2:11 Western States 100: Bouillard's sub-14-hour record
3:53 Jen Lichter's stunning 100-mile debut course record
8:00 Backyard Ultra world records broken in Russia
13:00 First official IKEA Marathon sells out
18:18 IOC's $10,000 athlete grants — hot take
23:44 Tokyo Marathon's record $170K prize purse and bigger field
27:40 Bonus: new podcast feed + Paris Diamond League recap

Fake Paramedic CANCELS Dutch Marathon, 8th Grader's World Record & Jenny Simpson Update

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 10:00:00 -0700

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the five biggest stories in the running world including a scary medical emergency involving one of the greatest track runners of all time, a jaw-dropping performance from an eighth grader, a Dutch marathon canceled over a fake paramedic scam, and why Berlin 2026 is shaping up to be the most anticipated marathon of the fall season. Chapters: 0:00 Intro — Top 5 Running Stories of the Week 1:27 Harry Styles Donates to Charity Runner Lawrence Dennis 5:15 8th Grader Luke Surface Runs World Best 5K (14:25) at Hayward Field 8:16 Dutch Sneak Marathon Canceled — Fake Paramedic Scam Exposed 12:32 Tigst Assefa Returns to Berlin to Chase the Women's Marathon World Record 20:40 Jenny Simpson's Medical Emergency at Sir Walter Miler — Latest Update 23:58 The Running Story Is Getting Its Own Podcast Feed

BREAKING: 2027 London Marathon Is Going to TWO DAYS: 100,000 Runners, & Ballot Impact

Marathon Handbook — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 10:00:00 -0700

The 2027 London Marathon has officially confirmed it will become a two-day event and Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth are breaking it all down in an emergency episode of The Running Story by Marathon Handbook. On Saturday, April 24th and Sunday, April 25th, 2027, London will host 100,000 runners across two days on the same course, making it the largest marathon event in history and the biggest fundraising event in UK sporting history. Chapters: 0:00 — Breaking news: London Marathon goes to two days 1:09 — What's confirmed: dates, format, course & ballot details 2:26 — Why London made this move (1.33M applicants) 5:19 — The logistics challenge & why it's framed as a one-off 7:26 — Unanswered questions: charity bibs & international quotas 9:08 — Elite field pressure after the historic sub-2 hour marathon 9:57 — A landmark moment for women's marathon coverage 12:03 — Elite wish lists: who needs to race London 2027 13:46 — The money behind running two World Marathon Major days 15:00 — One-and-done or permanent? Jessy's take 16:26 — Will New York, Chicago & other majors follow? 19:13 — Audience question & wrap-up

The Marathon Lottery Crisis, a 13-Year-Old Mile World Record & Kejelcha's Half Marathon Record Bid

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 10:00:00 -0700

A 13-year-old from Utah just broke a mile world record that had stood since 1973. Plus: Olympic triathlon gold medalists are hitting the track, a runner completed every single street in Chicago, Yomif Kejelcha could break the half marathon world record in Buenos Aires and the marathon lottery crisis is getting very real. Chapters: 0:00 — Intro & show announcements 2:53 — Story 1: 13-year-old Angelina Alder breaks 53-year-old mile world record 5:13 — Story 2: Olympic triathlon champions Alex Yee & Cassandre Beaugrand go to the track 7:35 — Story 3: Joabe Barbosa runs every street in Chicago (4,000 miles in 680 days) 12:00 — Story 4: Yomif Kejelcha targets half marathon world record in Buenos Aires 15:40 — Story 5: The marathon lottery crisis — Copenhagen, London & what's next 20:38 — Outro

Emergency Pod: Cape Town Is Officially the 8th World Marathon Major | Analysis

Marathon Handbook — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 10:00:00 -0700

It's official, and it's historic: the Cape Town Marathon has been named the 8th Abbott World Marathon Major — the first ever on the continent of Africa. In this surprise emergency episode, Michael Doyle and news editor Jesse Carveth break down the announcement the running world saw coming but couldn't stop talking about (00:37). They walk the full eight-major calendar from Tokyo to New York (01:28), make the case for why Africa was long overdue given that roughly 80% of the world's top 50 marathoners come from the continent (02:23), and explain what the new eight-star medal — and the provisional star for 2025 and 2026 entrants — means for star chasers (03:26). From there, the guys trace Cape Town's meteoric rise from ~16,000 to nearly 30,000 runners (03:59), revisit the brutal 2025 cancellation when severe winds stopped the race roughly 90 minutes before the gun (04:50), and unpack the 2027 ballot — open June 10, closing June 24 — including the decision to reserve two-thirds of entries for African runners (05:55). They dig into the Sanlam sponsorship extension (07:20) and ask the question on everyone's mind: with London drawing 1.4 million applicants, could Cape Town become the single hardest World Marathon Major to get into (08:20)? The conversation gets into the real reason so few races can join the club — the staggering cost of becoming a major, with even Valencia admitting it can't afford the leap (09:32) — plus entry prices (~$220 international vs. ~$48 local), Kipchoge's role as the ultimate ambassador, and how Cape Town defines its own character as a major (11:06). Finally, Michael and Jesse debate whether expansion waters down the brand or makes it truly global (16:18), and look ahead to Shanghai as the near-certain 9th major and the race for the 10th — South America, India, or the Middle East (19:30). They close on the big question: how long can the running boom keep this snowball rolling (22:31)? New episodes of The Running Story drop every Monday afternoon.

Trump's D.C. Golf Course Could Change the Marine Corps Marathon's Blue Mile, CIM Doubles & Rory Linkletter Goes Trail

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 10:00:00 -0700

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth dig into five stories you need to know about: from a politically charged threat to two iconic American road races, to a milestone 22 years in the making, to an elite marathoner trading the roads for a near-vertical mountain race. Chapters: 0:00 — Intro & New Independent Podcast Feed Announcement 2:42 — Story 1: Trump Golf Course Threatens Marine Corps Marathon & Cherry Blossom 10 Miler 6:19 — Story 2: Darren Wood Completes 1,000 Parkruns (a World First!) 10:10 — Story 3: California International Marathon Doubling to 40,000 Runners in 2027 13:46 — Story 4: Rory Linkletter's Elite Trail Debut at Broken Arrow Ascent 17:57 — Story 5: Running Speed Dating in Wales

The Fastest 10K That Won't Count, Kejelcha to Valencia Exclusive, Boulder Boulder DQ & More

Marathon Handbook — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 10:00:00 -0700

A packed week in running. Michael and Jessy cover five big stories including a time that would have rewritten the record books and an exclusive from the CEO of one of the world's best marathons. 0:00 Intro & Jessy's Unbound Gravel 200 3:00 10K in 26:01 — The Fastest in Human History (Unofficial) 5:30 Yomif Kejelcha Signs With Valencia Marathon 6:30 Exclusive Interview: Valencia CEO on the Appearance Fee & World Record Bid 10:08 Could Valencia Become a World Marathon Major? 13:30 Boulder Boulder DQ Controversy Explained 16:59 Was the Runner Warned? The Anonymous Tip 19:00 Bashir Abdi's Race Was 200 Meters Short 24:45 Claire Elms, 62, Sets Age Group World Record for 1500m 27:08 Outro & What's Coming Next

Cam Hanes Doping Controversy, Enhanced Games & Cape Town Marathon 2026 | The Running Story

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 25 May 2026 10:00:00 -0700

Thomas Watson fills in for Michael Doyle this week as he and Jessy Carveth run through five stories dominating the running world right now — from a doping controversy that broke the internet to a heartwarming marathon moment featuring the sport's greatest athlete. Cape Town Marathon emerged as one of the most significant races of the year, not just for the performances on the day but because it represents Cape Town's final year as a World Marathon Majors candidate. Muhammad Esa took the men's title in 2:04:55 — a new course record by nearly three and a half minutes — while Dara Deida won the women's race in 2:23:18. Eliud Kipchoge, competing in Africa for the first time, finished 16th in 2:13:29 as part of what's being called his world tour. The real highlight for Thomas and Jessy? Kipchoge's wife completing her first marathon, with Kipchoge waiting at the finish line. The Cam Hanes vs. Sage Canaday controversy is the most talked-about story in running right now, and for good reason. Elite ultra runner Sage Canaday filed a tip with USADA against 58-year-old podcaster, bow hunter, and social media figure Cam Hanes, after Haynes ran a 2:39 at the Oregon USATF Marathon Championship — a PR by 13 minutes at age 58 — while having publicly acknowledged using BPC-157, a peptide banned under the WADA code. Thomas and Jessy explore the nuance: should the rules apply equally at age group level? Is enforcement even realistic? And what does a 2:39 at 58 tell us about the future of peptides in recreational sport? The Enhanced Games took place in Las Vegas on the night of May 24th. Billed as the "Doping Olympics," the multi-sport competition promised record-breaking performances from athletes using banned substances under medical supervision — and backed by million-dollar prize money. The reality was less dramatic: self-proclaimed clean athletes won most events, just one world record was broken (in swimming), and 250,000 live stream viewers were left with more questions than answers about the event's future. Thomas and Jessy also note the organization's business model — an online supplement store selling the same substances the athletes use — and ask what that means for the enterprise. A Charlotte high school sprinter was disqualified from the anchor leg of the 4x400 relay at the North Carolina State Track and Field Championships after raising his hand and holding up five fingers — ruled as unsportsmanlike conduct. The call wiped out 10 team points and cost his school the overall state title. The video spread to nearly 8 million views on X. Thomas and Jessy unpack the two separate conversations the internet is collapsing into one: was the rule fairly applied, and should the rule exist at all? Emma Bates has signed with NeverSecond as a nutrition partner. This comes months after Bates very publicly fell out with her previous sponsor, alleging she was dropped because she was pregnant — a claim the sponsor disputed. With Bates currently around six to seven months pregnant and not racing this year, Never Second's decision to sign her is being read as both a statement of values and a smart strategic play as the brand looks to expand from trail/ultra/cycling into road running. Chapters: 0:00 – Intro & Jessy's Impromptu 10K (Third Place in Belgium!) 3:36 – Story 1: Cape Town Marathon – Kipchoge, Course Records & World Marathon Majors 9:02 – Story 2: Cam Hanes vs. Sage Canaday – Running's Biggest Doping Controversy 18:06 – Story 3: Enhanced Games Las Vegas – Did the "Doping Olympics" Deliver? 23:56 – Story 4: High School Sprinter Disqualified for Raising Hand at NC State Championships 29:18 – Story 5: Emma Bates Signs with NeverSecond After Sponsor Controversy 32:29 – Wrap-Up

1,000 Miles on a Track, Sawe to Berlin, Kejelcha to Valencia, Soweto Pay Scandal & Is Bolt the GOAT?

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 18 May 2026 10:00:00 -0700

The fall marathon season is already taking shape and Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth are here to break it all down. On this episode of The Running Story, the team runs through the five biggest stories from the past week in running. In this episode: The Soweto Marathon prize-money scandal — six months after the November 2025 race, the winners are still owed roughly $15,000, runners-up about $7,000, and the South African government is now threatening to step in. We unpack the broken sanctioning process, why the doping-results excuse fell apart, and the criminal charges that could be coming for the organizers. Mason Wright runs 1,000 miles on a Utah high school track — 18 days, 13 hours, 11 minutes, roughly 4,000 laps, and only the third person in history to finish the distance on a track. We talk about the mental load, the nerve damage by halfway, and where this fits next to Yiannis Kouros and Ned Brockman. The fall marathon field is set up early: Sabastian Sawe is officially racing the Berlin Marathon on September 27, Yomif Kejelcha is heading to Valencia on December 2 (with a $1 million-euro world-record bonus on the line), and Jacob Kiplimo is reportedly bound for Chicago. Who are we more excited to watch? Can either of them run sub-2 again without the other one in the race? A 15-year-old girl dies at the Leiden Half Marathon — and the conversation about minimum age limits in distance running comes roaring back. We get into how she was able to enter a 16+ race, the differences between European and North American bib pickup and ID checks, and why this debate shouldn't need a tragedy to happen. Sports scientists name the GOATs — a team of 16 researchers, published in Sports Medicine, used Olympic medals, world championship titles, world records, and record longevity to rank running's greatest. Usain Bolt and Faith Kipyegon take the top spots. We debate the men's and women's top five (Bekele, Johnson, Gebrselassie, Nurmi; Dibaba, Fraser-Pryce, Hassan, Ottey), the apples-to-oranges problem of comparing sprinters to marathoners, and the glaring omissions of Eliud Kipchoge and Kelvin Kiptum. Plus: Jessy's impromptu 5K podium ("Running Revenge Vol. 2"), and a preview of the new Alex Cyr / Alexis podcast dropping into this feed soon.

Rachel Entrekin SHOCKS Cocodona, London Marathon Ballot Breaks 1.3M & Cross Country DENIED at 2030 Olympics

Marathon Handbook — Tue, 12 May 2026 10:00:00 -0700

Michael and Jessy run through the five most intriguing stories in running this week. Rachel Entrekin became the first woman to win Cocodona 250 outright, demolishing the overall course record and finishing nearly 10 miles ahead of the next runner. We dig into the body-composition science behind why women keep closing — and surpassing — men at extreme ultra distances, and acknowledge the tragic death reported on course. Then to Cincinnati: 22-year-old Sophia Dick says she missed a turnoff at the Flying Pig half marathon and accidentally ran her first full in 3:30 alongside Harvey Lewis on his 100th marathon. Locals say the course is impossible to miss. We weigh the heartwarming version against the conspiracy version. The 2027 London Marathon ballot closed with over 1.3 million entries, nearly 2% of the entire UK population, making a two-day London Marathon feel increasingly inevitable. French star Jimmy Gressier is going after Mo Farah's One Hour Track World Record on September 4th at the Brussels Diamond League final. We talk pace (67-second laps for an hour), venue, and the strange charm of attrition racing. And finally: the IOC has reportedly declined to add cross country running to the 2030 Winter Olympics in the French Alps. Chapters: 00:00 Intro: this week's top 5 stories 01:26 Rachel Entrekin makes history at Cocodona 250 05:40 Sophia Dick "accidentally" runs her first marathon 11:18 London Marathon 2027: 1.3 million ballot entries 15:10 Jimmy Gressier targets Mo Farah's One Hour Track World Record 19:56 Cross country DENIED at the 2030 Winter Olympics 23:00 Preview of Next Week

An 11-Year-Old's Viral Half Marathon, Vinny Mauri's 2:05 Debut, Steiner vs. Puma & the Brand Quietly Crushing Running

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 04 May 2026 10:00:00 -0700

Michael and Jessy are back after covering Boston and London, and this week's five stories cover everything from a polarizing youth running debate to one of the most shocking marathon debuts in American history. An 11-year-old from Indiana, Ben Dick, ran 1:20:14 at the IU Health 500 Festival mini marathon — reportedly the fastest half ever run by a boy his age. He dropped his dad at mile seven. The internet is split. We dig into what happens to these kid phenoms long-term, and why pediatricians (and Jessy's kinesiology background) say the half marathon distance is too much for a developing 11-year-old body. Sprinter Abby Steiner is suing Puma and Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix, claiming the carbon-plated shoes and spikes she wore caused the foot and Achilles injuries that have kept her off the track since the 2024 Olympic Trials. We unpack the questions this raises about athlete responsibility, sponsor accountability, and how you even quantify a derailed sprinting career. While the running world was glued to Sebastian Sawe's near-sub-two London Marathon, 25-year-old Vinny Mauri quietly ran 2:05:54 at the Glass City Marathon in Toledo, Ohio — the fastest U.S. marathon debut on record. Before the race he joked that if he didn't break 2:16 he wasn't a real marathoner. He broke the course record by more than 13 minutes. Nobody had heard of him. His Twitter feed is mostly Bitcoin memes. Expect a major brand to scoop him up fast. Cocodona 250 has kicked off in Arizona — 253 miles from Black Canyon to Flagstaff with 40,000 feet of climbing and a 125-hour cutoff. Courtney Dauwalter is the clear women's favorite (and looking for redemption after dropping out last year), but the field is deep with Rachel Entrekin, Heather Jackson, and surprise headliner Randy Zuckerberg. The men's race is wide open with Jeff Browning, Joe McConaughy, Ryan Clifford, and Adam Kimble all in the mix. And finally — the running brand quietly dominating the industry isn't Nike, Adidas, or Asics. It's Brooks. Their best quarter ever: 23% global growth, North America up 20%, EMEA up 30%, China up 136%. Eleven straight quarters as the #1 specialty performance running brand in the U.S. Michael shares early thoughts on the unreleased Hyperion Elite 6 (out August), which Jess McClain and Clayton Young raced in Boston. Subscribe to the Marathon Handbook newsletter at marathonhandbook.com/newsletter for new episode alerts and a heads up when The Running Story moves to its own dedicated feed. Follow along on Instagram: @marathon.handbook New episodes every Monday.

Top Storylines of the London Marathon: Sawe vs. Kiplimo, Assefa, Obiri & Potential a World Record?

Marathon Handbook — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0700

Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth sit down for their full elite preview of the 2026 London Marathon, breaking down the top five storylines ahead of Sunday's race. Sebastian Sawe and Jacob Kiplimo headline a men's field that Sawe himself says will require a course record to win: 2:01:25, set by the late Kelvin Kiptum in 2024. Kiplimo arrives fresh off a ratified 57:20 half marathon world record in Lisbon and a World Cross Country title in January. Sawe is expected to debut the Adidas Adios Pro Evo 3, setting up a head-to-head super shoe war against Kiplimo's Nike Alphafly 4. The women's race took a hit when two major names withdrew, but Tigst Assefa (defending champion and women's-only world record holder) and Helen Obiri make it a showdown worth tuning in for: Obiri finally gets her shot at a flat, fast course after a career built on the hills of Boston, New York, and Paris. In the men's field behind the big two: three former track stars: Yomif Kejelcha, Hagos Gebrhiwet, and Joshua Cheptegei: try to translate their 5K/10K brilliance into 26.2. Cheptegei is still looking to crack the marathon; Kejelcha and Gebrhiwet are both making their debuts. The British field takes a hit with Emile Cairess withdrawing injured, leaving Mohamed Mohamed, Phil Sesemann, and Patrick Dever to chase Mo Farah's national record of 2:05:11. On the women's side, Eilish McColgan enters with a healthy buildup and a European 10K record (30:07 in Valencia) to her name.

130th Boston Marathon Preview: 5 Must-Watch Storylines + Our Bold Winner Picks

Marathon Handbook — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0700

Patriots Day is almost here — and Michael and Jessy are in full Boston Marathon mode. In this episode, they break down the five biggest stories heading into the 130th Boston Marathon on Monday, April 20th, before laying out their bold picks for the men's and women's race winners and top American finishers. Story 1 – Kipruto vs. Korir: The Headliner Matchup Past champion Benson Kipruto (Boston 2021, Chicago 2022, Tokyo 2024, New York 2024) returns to face defending champion John Korir in what shapes up as the defining men's storyline. Their personal bests are separated by just eight seconds, but as Michael and Jessy discuss, Boston is never won on speed alone — Newton Hills, race tactics, and championship experience are just as decisive. Story 2 – Can Anyone Beat the Defending Women's Champion? The defending women's champion is the heavy favourite, but with her fiercest rival Helen Obiri absent from the field this year, the dynamic shifts. Does she need that neck-and-neck rivalry to bring out her best? Jessy breaks down the closest challengers on paper, including Irene Cheptai and Worknesh Edesa, and why Emily Sisson is the American name to watch. Story 3 – Top American Men: Who Steps Up with Manz Out? American record holder Conner Mantz is a DNS due to injury — a big blow, but the American men's field still has plenty to get excited about. Michael and Jessy spotlight Zha Alby (2:05:45 at Houston this year and ascending fast), Clayton Young (crashing into Boston off an abbreviated build but motivated by a fresh move to Brooks), and breakout names Ryan Ford and CJ Albertson — who'll be joining the team at their live Saturday event on Newbury Street. Story 4 – Emily Sisson, Fiona O'Keefe & a Stacked American Women's Field Is this finally Emily Sisson's signature Boston moment? Or does Fiona O'Keefe — Michael's sleeper pick and someone who was genuinely in contention to win New York last fall — steal the spotlight? The pair also make the case for Susanna Sullivan (low-key, deadly), Jess McClain (due a big day after a brutal run of bad luck), and the ever-reliable Sarah Hall. Story 5 – The Dark Horse: Nicholas Kipkorir's Marathon Debut Jessy's personal favourite storyline. The 27-year-old Kenyan ran 58:08 at the Lisbon Half Marathon this year — second behind Jacob Kiplimo's world record — translating theoretically to a 2:01:12 marathon equivalent. He's never run a marathon. Boston is his debut. Will his track speed and raw talent carry him, or will the Newton Hills claim another rookie? Either way, this is the subplot to watch.

Is Gout Gout the Next Usain Bolt? + Des Linden's Ultra Debut, Blind Runner History & World Marathon News

Marathon Handbook — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0700

Come to our LIVE SHOW in Boston! Join Alex, Katelyn and Michael and some very special guests, + giveaways and prizes! 📅 Saturday, April 18, at 6:45 p.m 📍 Trident Booksellers & Café, 338 Newbury Street 🎟️ It's free to attend, but make sure to RSVP now, as space is limited: https://forms.gle/sFk28hfMYznrsNxMA Five big stories this week — strap in. Des Linden | Marathon des Sables The 2018 Boston Marathon champion finished 3rd overall at the 2026 Marathon des Sables, a six-day, 250+ km stage race through the Sahara. Her finishing time: 30 hours, 16 minutes, 32 seconds. Even wilder: this was only her second-ever trail ultramarathon, and one of the stages was 100K — more than double her previous longest run ever. Winner Mary-Line Nahon of France took her third MdS title in just under 26 hours. Des lands in Boston next week to pace her husband. No rest for the wicked. Clarke Reynolds | Blind Runner Makes Marathon History British runner Clark Reynolds, who has just 5% vision due to retinitis pigmentosa, became the first blind person to complete a marathon using Meta smart glasses and the Be My Eyes app. At the 2026 Brighton Marathon, he was guided by 400 trained volunteers who rotated every 30 minutes via the app, with a physical guide runner alongside as a safety net. A feel-good story of the year contender — and we're hoping to get Clark on the pod soon. World Athletics Marathon World Championships | Our Take World Athletics has announced a standalone World Athletics Marathon Championships launching in 2030, separate from the main World Athletics Championships. Athens is in the running to host, citing the marathon's birthplace. The official reason given? Climate change. Michael isn't buying it. We break down what this could — and should — look like, and why the Tour de France/F1 model is the blueprint they're ignoring. Josh Kerr | Marathon Curiosity One of the world's premier milers and 1500m runners has publicly expressed his desire to one day run — and win — a World Marathon Major. We dig into the history of track-to-marathon transitions (Kipchoge, Sifan Hassan, Kenenisa Bekele) and why this path is more plausible than it sounds. A marathon Kerr vs. Ingebrigtsen rivalry? We're manifesting it. Gout Gout | 19.67 in the 200m at Age 18 The Australian teenage sprinting phenomenon ran 19.67 in the 200m in Sydney — breaking the World U20 record and becoming the first Australian man to break 20 seconds under legal wind conditions. For context: Usain Bolt ran 19.93 at the same age. Gout Gout (G-O-U-T G-O-U-T) is now 16th on the all-time 200m list at 18 years old. Born December 29th, he's one to circle for the 2028 Olympics.

Conner Mantz OUT of Boston + NYC Champ Hit With 5-Year Doping Ban | The Running Story

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0700

London Two-Day Marathon Plan? Emma Bates Sponsor Drama & More Race Chaos

Marathon Handbook — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0700

Come to our LIVE SHOW in Boston! Join Alex, Katelyn and Michael and some very special guests, + giveaways and prizes! 📅 Saturday, April 18, at 6:45 p.m 📍 Trident Booksellers & Café, 338 Newbury Street 🎟️ It's free to attend, but make sure to RSVP now, as space is limited: https://forms.gle/sFk28hfMYznrsNxMA Boston Article: https://marathonhandbook.com/could-boston-marathons-qualifier-problem-be-solved-by-going-two-days/ Michael and Jessy are back with the top five running stories of the week — and there's a lot to unpack. Before they dive in, a quick celebration: Jessie ran her debut half marathon over the weekend, clocking a 1:34 after just six weeks of run training. Not bad for a professional cyclist. Story 1: London Marathon Eyes 100,000-Runner, Two-Day Event The Guardian has reported that the London Marathon could expand to a two-day, 100,000-runner event as early as 2027. The proposal would see the men's and women's elite races split across Saturday and Sunday, each with 50,000 mass participants. With 1.1 million ballot applicants this year and London's status as the world's largest single-day charity fundraiser, the upside is enormous — but the logistical hurdles are just as big. London Marathon Events has not confirmed or denied the report. Story 2: Emma Bates Claims She Was Dropped by Sponsor for Being Pregnant In an Instagram video, American elite marathoner Emma Bates revealed that her nutrition sponsor UCAN ended their partnership after she told them she was pregnant. UCAN pushed back, saying the decision was made in September 2025 — before they knew about the pregnancy — as part of a broader strategic shift away from elite athlete sponsorships. With no clear evidence either way, it's a he said/she said story that has stirred significant debate in the running community. Story 3: US Half Marathon Championship Controversy Gets More Complicated Following the Atlanta debacle where lead runners Jess McClain, Emma Grace Hurley, and Edna Ker were sent off course during the US Half Marathon Championships, World Athletics has approved a one-time expanded entry of seven athletes (up from four) for the World Half Marathon Championships this fall. The catch: there will be an A team (four scoring runners) and a B team (three non-scoring runners wearing different kits). The big unresolved question — who earns the A team spots? Michael and Jessie weigh in. 🎙️ Listen out this weekend for Alex Cyr's exclusive one-on-one interview with Jess McClain — her first time speaking publicly about the Atlanta controversy. Story 4: Modesto Marathon Winner Disqualified After Lead Bike Error Benjamin Enowitz crossed the finish line first at the Modesto Marathon in California — and was immediately handed a DNF. He'd been led short of the halfway turnaround point by the lead vehicle and didn't complete the full distance. It's not the first time the Modesto race has had a lead vehicle incident, and it's part of a wider pattern the team has noticed: course errors caused by lead vehicles are becoming a weekly story in 2026. Story 5: Chaos at China's Shang Do World Heritage Marathon Three separate incidents at the same race in China generated headlines worldwide. First, a runner with the surname Wang stopped mid-race to do the splits and pose for photographers — earning a two-year race ban. Then, a runner named Zang was photographed carrying a clear drawstring bag stuffed with hundreds of free race gels — also disqualified and banned for two years. Finally, a third runner received a lifetime ban from the Chengdu race after a bib-swapping incident. Breaking News (just before recording): Former New York City Marathon champion Albert Korir has reportedly tested positive for EPO or an EPO-derived substance. Full coverage next week.

Sifan Hassan OUT of London + NCAA Doping Scandal, Strava Leak & Race Chaos

Marathon Handbook — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0700

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth dive into one of the wildest weeks in running news. We cover a major shake-up ahead of the London Marathon as Sifan Hassan withdraws due to injury — and what it means for the elite field. Then, a controversial NCAA doping case explodes into the spotlight after athletes stage a dramatic podium walk-off in protest. Plus: • A bizarre Strava upload that exposed the location of a French aircraft carrier • Clayton Young's surprise move from ASICS to Brooks just weeks before Boston • A marathon in China where the winner was literally stopped meters before the finish • We also preview Boston, talk London contenders, and share details about upcoming live shows.

Possible Women's Marathon World Record + Kipchoge's 2026 Marathon Tour

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0700

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down one of the most chaotic weeks in running news this year. A little-known Ethiopian runner stunned the world at the Barcelona Marathon, running 2:10:53 in her marathon debut — the fastest debut ever and the second-fastest women's marathon in history. But with the current world record clouded by doping controversy, what does this performance really mean? We also discuss Eliud Kipchoge's 2026 race calendar, which includes marathons on three continents: Cape Town, Brazil, and Melbourne. Plus: NYC Half Marathon results Helen Obiri's dominant performance Grant Fisher's pro road debut Randi Zuckerberg's impressive 82-mile FKT Nike's new ultra runner residency program If you enjoy running news, marathon analysis, and the biggest stories in endurance sports, tune in every week for The Running Story.

Kiplimo's 57:20 Half Marathon, Kipchoge's Next Race, LA Marathon Controversies & NYC Lottery Odds | The Running Story

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0700

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the five biggest stories shaping the running world. First up: Jacob Kiplimo runs 57:20 at the Lisbon Half Marathon, potentially reclaiming the half marathon world record pending ratification after last year's controversy over pacing vehicles. Next, Eliud Kipchoge announces he'll run the Cape Town Marathon, marking the first time the marathon legend will race on African soil in a marathon — and possibly positioning him to become the first eight-star finisher if Cape Town becomes a World Marathon Major. We also dive into two major LA Marathon controversies: A stunning 0.01-second finish after the race leader was misdirected off course near the finish A heated debate after runners who took a heat-relief shortcut at mile 18 were still awarded finisher medals. Finally, the NYC Marathon lottery results are out — and the odds are tougher than ever, with around 1% of applicants accepted.

US Half Marathon Controversy, Ironman's Camera Crackdown & Tokyo Marathon Fireworks

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0800

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth unpack one of the most dramatic weeks in running so far this year. We start in Tokyo, where the first World Marathon Major of 2026 delivered a blistering three-man sprint finish and a stunning women's course record performance. Then we dive into the chaos at the US Half Marathon Championships in Atlanta, where a lead vehicle reportedly took a wrong turn — costing Jess McClain a national title and a potential automatic World Championships spot. Plus: Ironman bans on-course photography, phones, GoPros, and wearable camera glasses — is this about safety or squeezing athletes into buying official photos? Olympic superstar Eileen Gu's surprisingly strong running résumé Honoring the legacy of Jeff Galloway, 1972 Olympian and pioneer of the run-walk method It's a packed episode covering controversy, brilliance, and legacy in the running world. Follow the show for weekly deep dives into the biggest stories in running. Read Amby Burfoot's interview with Jess McClain. 00:00 Intro 2:00 Tokyo Marathon 2026 Recap 5:06 Jeff Galloway Remembered (1945–2026) 8:15 Eileen Gu: The Elite Runner That Never Was 11:25 US Half Marathon Championships Controversy 17:54 Ironman Bans On-Course Photography

Boston's 2026 Medal Revealed, Two World Records & A Wild Week in Running

Marathon Handbook — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0800

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down five of the biggest headlines in distance running. The NYC Half Marathon elite fields are officially set, and the matchups are electric. Grant Fisher makes his highly anticipated half marathon debut, while Sharon Lokedi and Hellen Obiri renew one of the sport's fiercest rivalries. On the track, Keely Hodgkinson takes down a long-standing 800m indoor world record in dominant fashion. In ultrarunning, Ashley Paulson runs 12:19:34 to break the women's 100-mile world record — but her past suspension raises questions that the sport can't ignore. Plus, a Florida man is federally indicted under the Rodchenko Anti-Doping Act in connection with an Olympic sprinter — a case that could have serious implications for elite sport. And finally, the Boston Marathon unveils its 2026 finisher medal. Is it a classic… or a step backward? We debate. Subscribe for weekly breakdowns of the biggest stories in the running world. 0:00 Intro 1:15 NYC Half Marathon Preview 5:36 Florida Doping Indictment 8:05 100-Mile World Record 10:51 800m Indoor World Record 13:15 Boston Marathon 2026 Medal Debate 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com. 🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook 📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter

Cole Hocker's Record Mile, Faith Kipyegon's Road Debut & The Jeans Marathon Phenomenon

Marathon Handbook — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0800

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the biggest stories in the running world. Cole Hocker runs 3:45.94 to set a new American indoor mile record — the second-fastest indoor mile ever. What does it mean for the global mile scene? Faith Kipyegon surprises everyone by racing her first-ever road 10K in Monaco. After dominating the 1,500m for years, is this the beginning of a move toward the marathon? Check out our Barkley Marathon episode! https://youtu.be/F0XU2NqKCxA Super Shoe Rankings: https://youtu.be/Jbb1KIH-3qI We also discuss: Sam Ruth's latest performance on US soil On's new super shoe prototype approved by World Athletics The Super Bowl halftime performer who logged his show on Strava Truett Hanes running 2:36 at the Austin Marathon — in full-length jeans Whether the "Jeans Guy" can realistically qualify for the US Olympic Marathon Trials New episodes of The Running Story drop weekly, covering the biggest stories in track, road racing, and marathoning. 00:00 – Intro: This Week in Running News 00:30 – Barkley Special Episode Mention 01:10 – Story 1: Cole Hocker Breaks Indoor Mile Record 02:30 – Sam Ruth's Big Test Against Elite Milers 04:50 – What's Next for Sam Ruth in 2026 05:45 – Story 2: Super Bowl Halftime Show Logged on Strava 06:30 – Viral Sugar Cane Costume Workout Explained 07:30 – How Strava Got Him a NYC Marathon Bib 08:45 – Story 3: On's New Super Shoe Prototype Leak 09:30 – World Athletics Approval & Prototype Rules 10:15 – Helen Obiri's London Marathon Opportunity 11:00 – New Midsole Tech and Cloudboom Updates 13:15 – Can On Compete With Nike & Adidas? 14:30 – Story 4: Faith Kipyegon's Surprise Road 10K Debut 15:30 – Negative Split Win in Monaco 16:30 – Could Faith Kipyegon Run a Marathon One Day? 19:30 – Story 5: Truett Hanes "Jeans Guy" Austin Marathon 20:40 – Running 2:36 in Denim: How Serious Is He? 21:45 – Olympic Trials Standard: Still a Long Way to Go 22:45 – Tearaway Jeans vs Racing Shorts Debate 24:50 – Wrap-Up & Subscribe for Weekly Episodes

Barkley Marathons 2026: Why No One Finished (Again)

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0800

The 2026 Barkley Marathons delivered one of the most brutal editions in race history — and for the second year in a row, no one finished. In this episode of The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth unpack everything that happened at this year's Barkley Marathons in Tennessee's Frozen Head State Park. They discuss: Why the February start made this year historic How cold rain, fog, and creek crossings shaped the race The shockingly low Loop 1 completion rate The lone "fun run" finisher The top women's performances The mysterious reporting style of the Barkley Whether Lazarus Lake made the race too hard What 2027 might look like Is the Barkley Marathons supposed to be nearly impossible — or has the balance tipped too far? If you love ultrarunning, trail running, and deep race analysis, this episode is for you. Read our feature on Keith Dunn: https://marathonhandbook.com/meet-keith-dunn-the-mad-tweeter-of-the-barkley-marathons/ New episodes of The Running Story drop weekly.

World Record Chaos, Kipchoge at the Olympics & the Rise of Brooks

Marathon Handbook — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0800

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth unpack one of the strangest controversies in recent running history. A men's half marathon world record — the fastest ever run — has officially been disqualified nearly a year later. We break down why World Athletics made the call, how much advantage pacing vehicles really provide, and what it means for the sport moving forward. Plus: Eliud Kipchoge shows up at the Winter Olympics in a surprising Nike activation Brooks posts massive global growth and quietly becomes running's most dominant brand Femke Bol debuts at 800m and immediately makes history Andre De Grasse swaps the track for the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game From elite performance to brand strategy and Olympic storylines, this episode covers everything runners need to know this week. 🎙️ New episodes every week from Marathon Handbook 📌 Subscribe for weekly breakdowns of the biggest stories in running, track & field, and endurance sports. 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com. 🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook 📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter

Who Is Sam Ruthe, the 16-Year-Old Who Ran a 3:48 Mile? + Olympians Get Paid, The Highest VO₂ Max Score Ever

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0800

Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth return with five of the most intriguing running stories of the week: King Charles III makes a surprise appearance at a parkrun in Norfolk (0:56). A billionaire pledges $100M to support U.S. Olympic athletes — with delayed payouts and major conditions (6:16). Sha'Carri Richardson faces legal trouble after being clocked at 100 mph (12:00). Triathlon star Kristian Blummenfelt records the highest VO₂ max ever measured (15:34). 16-year-old Sam Ruthe shocks the sport with a historic 3:48 mile in Boston (18:36) Plus, Jessy shares his early picks for the London Marathon. New episodes every Monday evening — subscribe and stay caught up on the running world.

A Runner Ran a Marathon Carrying... A Baby?!, Des Linden's Crazy Spring Plans, and Where Will Harry Styles Race Next?

Marathon Handbook — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0800

Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the five most compelling stories in running this week — starting with one of the most bizarre marathon disqualifications ever, after a runner was spotted racing the Hong Kong Marathon with a baby strapped to his chest. From there, they dive into Des Linden's jaw-dropping spring race schedule, which somehow includes the Marathon des Sables, Boston, and London — all within weeks. The episode also features a standout moment from Boston's indoor Grand Prix, where a 60-year-old grandmother ran a mile world record, plus two more historic performances on the track. The conversation wraps with elite running politics, world record context, and a lighthearted but surprisingly thorough investigation into which marathon Harry Styles might target in 2026 — with Chicago, London, and New York all in play. Insightful, opinionated, and deeply nerdy in the best way — this is The Running Story. Planning Upcoming Tour Around Marathons? 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com. 🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook 📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter

Des Linden & Molly Seidel Go Ultra, a 49-Year-Old Olympic Trials Qualifier, and Ed Sheeran Is a Runner

Marathon Handbook — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0800

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

Houston Marathon Shockers, a Burrito League Launches & Records Fall Worldwide | The Running Story

Marathon Handbook — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0800

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

Bonus Podcast: The Running Story | This Week's Biggest Running News Explained

Marathon Handbook — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0800

NOTE FOR SUBSCRIBERS: This is a bonus, inaugural episode of a new weekly podcast we're piloting called The Running Story. For the next few weeks, you'll receive this show in the Marathon Handbook feed on Mondays alongside our regular Thursday podcast. We'd love your feedback — email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com. More new podcast projects are coming in 2026. Welcome to the first episode of The Running Story, a new weekly running news podcast from Marathon Handbook. Hosted by Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth, this show breaks down four to five of the most important and interesting stories from the past week in the sport and culture of running. Each episode is designed to get you up to speed quickly — under 30 minutes — with context, analysis, and conversation around the stories runners are already talking about. In this inaugural episode, we cover: • The Tokyo Hakone Ekiden, Japan's biggest running event • The rebrand of the NN Running Team • Ultra legend Ann Trason's remarkable multi-day run • Shelby Houlihan's controversial trail racing debut • Truett "Jeans Guy" Haynes and his Olympic Trials ambitions This podcast is released weekly on Mondays, in addition to the regular Marathon Handbook Podcast on Thursdays.