Running News Daily
Top Ten Stories of the Week
3/15/2025
These are the top ten stories based on views over the last week.
Harry Styles From Global Pop Star to Marathon Runner
Harry Styles is best known for his chart-topping music, sold-out world tours, and effortless charisma. But in addition to his accolades in entertainment, Styles has now established himself as a legitimate marathon runner. His recent performance at the 2025 Tokyo Marathon, where he finished in an impressive 3 hours, 24 minutes, and 7 seconds, has sparked widespread attention in the running community.
The Musician-Turned-Marathoner
While many celebrities dabble in fitness, Harry Styles' commitment to distance running is far from casual. The 30-year-old singer-songwriter, formerly of One Direction, has always been known for his energetic stage presence and relentless touring schedule, both of which require significant stamina. But his disciplined approach to marathon training reveals a new layer of dedication beyond the spotlight.
At the Tokyo Marathon on March 2, 2025, Styles placed 6,010th out of over 26,000 runners, finishing ahead of more than 20,000 competitors. His pace of 7:47 per mile was remarkably steady, with near-identical splits for the first and second halves of the race—1:42:03 and 1:42:04, respectively. This consistency is a hallmark of experienced marathoners, proving Styles' preparation and race strategy were well-executed.
How Did He Train?
While Styles has yet to publicly detail his full training regimen, sources close to the musician have hinted at his intense dedication. Reports suggest he followed a structured training plan, incorporating long runs, speed work, and cross-training. Given his history of staying active and embracing challenges, it’s no surprise that Styles approached marathon running with the same level of focus he applies to his music career.
What Shoes Did He Wear?
Runners always want to know about gear choices, and Styles opted for the Nike Alphafly 3, one of the most advanced marathon racing shoes on the market. The carbon-plated, energy-returning design of the Alphafly series has helped many elite runners achieve fast times, and Styles’ choice indicates he’s serious about performance.
Harry’s Background in Fitness
Long before tackling 26.2 miles, Styles was no stranger to an active lifestyle. His concerts, which involve hours of movement and high-energy performances, have kept him in excellent shape. During his One Direction days, Styles often spoke about playing football (soccer) and enjoying hikes, but running a full marathon is a leap into an entirely new level of endurance.
Styles has also embraced wellness trends, including yoga and meditation, as part of his holistic approach to health. Running seems to fit seamlessly into his lifestyle, giving him both a physical and mental outlet amid the chaos of global fame.
Will He Run More Marathons?
With a sub-3:30 marathon debut, the big question now is what’s next for Harry Styles as a runner? Many fans and experts believe this won’t be his last race. Given his steady pacing and strong finish, he has the potential to go even faster in future marathons. Could a sub-3-hour marathon be in his future? Time will tell.
Harry Styles is more than just a music icon—he’s now part of the global running community. His impressive debut at the Tokyo Marathon has not only inspired his fans but also demonstrated that elite-level entertainment careers and serious marathon training can go hand in hand. Whether he’s breaking records on the stage or on the racecourse, one thing is certain.
Harry Styles is in it for the long run.
What do you think about Harry’s marathon performance? Should he try for a Boston Qualifier next? Share your thoughts on My Best Runs!
(03/08/25) Views: 726
Yuki Kawauchi Proves His Endurance with New Marathon Success in 2025
Yuki Kawauchi, known worldwide as the “Citizen Runner,” continues to defy expectations in the marathon world. From his historic 2018 Boston Marathon victory to his latest triumphs in 2025, Kawauchi remains one of the most consistent and determined long-distance runners in the sport. Now a full-time professional, he has overcome setbacks and continues to post impressive results on the global stage.
The 2018 Boston Marathon Victory
Kawauchi cemented his place in marathon history on April 16, 2018, when he won the Boston Marathon in one of the most challenging weather conditions the race had ever seen. With heavy rain, powerful headwinds, and freezing temperatures around 40°F (4°C), many elite runners struggled—but not Kawauchi. His relentless surges and fearless strategy allowed him to overtake defending champion Geoffrey Kirui in the final miles, crossing the finish line in 2:15:58. He became the first Japanese man to win the race since Toshihiko Seko in 1987.
Transition to Professional Running
Despite his international success, Kawauchi spent years balancing his training with a full-time job as a government clerk. In 2019, he made the long-awaited decision to turn professional, allowing him to focus entirely on training and racing. The transition led to an improvement in his performances, including a personal best marathon time of 2:07:27 at the 2021 Lake Biwa Marathon.
Battling Through 2024
The road to success is never without obstacles. In 2024, Kawauchi endured an inconsistent season, marked by injuries and slower race times. However, he continued to compete with determination, finishing several marathons despite the setbacks:
• Ibusuki Nanohana Marathon (January 2024): 1st place, 2:21:13
• Paris Marathon (April 2024): 75th place, 2:31:03
• Gold Coast Marathon (July 2024): 156th place, 2:42:26
• Hofu Yomiuri Marathon (December 2024): 38th place, 2:33:01
• Mie Matsusaka Marathon (December 2024): 6th place, 2:22:02
Despite these struggles, Kawauchi never lost sight of his goal—to return stronger in 2025.
A Strong Comeback in 2025
This year, Kawauchi has proven once again why he is one of the most enduring marathoners in the world. His persistence paid off with a strong performance early in 2025:
• Tokyo Marathon (March 2025): 15th place, 2:10:45
His victory at the Tohoku Miyagi Revive Marathon was a defining moment, signaling that Kawauchi is back in top form.
Training and Personal Life
Now a professional, Kawauchi has adapted his training regimen to include higher mileage and more structured workouts. He still follows an old-school approach, frequently training alone and racing more often than most elite marathoners. His high-volume racing strategy continues to set him apart, proving that consistency and experience can be just as valuable as raw speed.
In his personal life, Kawauchi married fellow runner Yuko Mizuguchi in 2019. The couple shares a passion for marathon running, supporting each other’s athletic careers. Their shared dedication to the sport has made them one of Japan’s most inspiring running duos.
A Lasting Legacy
Yuki Kawauchi has defied conventional wisdom in long-distance running, proving that elite performances don’t require sponsorships, high-tech training camps, or corporate teams. His dedication, work ethic, and ability to push through challenges continue to inspire runners of all levels.
With his recent 2025 victory and continued improvement, Kawauchi remains a formidable competitor in the global marathon scene. Whether battling extreme weather or personal setbacks, his resilience and love for the sport continue to make him a legend in the running community.
(03/09/25) Views: 383Boris Baron
The Fueling Strategy of a Champion—Jimmy Muindi’s Approach to Nutrition and Race Preparation - Part three
In Parts One and Two, we explored Jimmy Muindi’s remarkable journey from a young barefoot runner to an elite marathoner, and his transition into coaching at the Kenyan Athletics Training Academy (KATA) in Portugal (all photos taken at KATA located at Anderson Manor Retreat in Monforte da Beira Portugal). Now, in Part Three, we delve into a critical element of running success—nutrition and hydration.
Training alone isn’t enough to maximize performance. Proper fueling and strategic race preparation play a major role in an athlete’s ability to perform at their best. Muindi has learned firsthand, through years of competing at the highest level, that what and when you eat can make or break a race.
At KATA Portugal, Muindi applies these same principles to his coaching, ensuring that runners understand not just how to train, but also how to eat and hydrate for peak performance.
The Key to Fueling: Why Two Nights Before the Race Matters Most
Many runners focus on carb-loading the night before a race, but Muindi emphasizes that the most important meal happens two nights before the race.
“If you eat too much the night before, your body doesn’t have enough time to fully process and store the energy properly,” Muindi explains. “Instead, it’s two nights before when you need to eat your biggest meal. That’s when your body is in the best position to absorb the nutrients and store glycogen for race day.”
This strategy is a hallmark of elite Kenyan runners. While they do eat a balanced meal the night before, it’s more about maintaining energy stores rather than overloading.
The Kenyan Runner’s Diet: Simple, Natural, and Effective
For decades, Kenyan distance runners have followed a diet that is both simple and highly effective. Muindi is no exception.
At the core of this diet are:
• Carbohydrates (about 75-80% of daily intake)– Ugali (a maize-based staple), rice, and potatoes provide the primary energy sources.
• Vegetables– Greens such as sukuma wiki (collard greens), spinach, and cabbage are common.
• Proteins (about 10-15%)– Beans, lentils, eggs, and occasionally meat (usually chicken, goat, or beef, but not in excess).
• Healthy fats– Avocados, nuts, and milk from cows or goats.
• Tea with milk and sugar– This is an important part of a Kenyan runner’s daily routine. Tea is consumed multiple times a day, often before and after training sessions. The combination of milk and sugar provides quick energy while keeping hydration levels up.
What’s notably absent from the traditional Kenyan diet is excessive processed foods. While sugar is used in tea, highly refined snacks and artificial ingredients are avoided. Instead, the focus is on whole, home-cooked meals with natural ingredients.
Pre-Race Nutrition Strategy
Muindi breaks his pre-race nutrition plan into three key phases:
1. Two Nights Before the Race – The Most Important Meal
• Large serving of ugali or rice for carbohydrates
• Protein source (beans, lentils, or chicken)
• Cooked greens for vitamins and minerals
• Hydration: Water and tea with milk and sugar
2. The Night Before the Race – Keeping It Light
• A smaller portion of carbohydrates (usually rice)
• Light vegetables
• Minimal protein (to avoid digestion issues the next morning)
• Hydration: Water, tea with milk and sugar, no heavy or fatty foods
3. Race Day Morning – Quick, Easily Digestible Energy
• A slice of bread with honey
• A banana for quick energy
• Black tea or tea with milk and sugar
• No heavy meals—just enough to keep energy levels stable without causing stomach discomfort
Hydration Strategy: Timing Matters
Muindi's approach to hydration during a marathon is disciplined and strategic. Unlike recreational runners who may sip water frequently, he does not take any water until after the 5K mark. From that point onward, he drinks water every 5K, adjusting based on weather conditions.
“For me, being out there for just over two hours, I don’t need to drink too much,” Muindi explains. “I know my body, and I hydrate well before the race, so I only take small amounts of water every 5K.”
However, Muindi acknowledges that this approach isn’t suitable for everyone.
“If you are running at a four-hour pace or longer, your hydration needs change. For runners expecting to be on the course for four, six, or even eight hours, regular hydration is critical. In these cases, you need to take in more fluids and also consume calories—things like bananas or energy gels—to maintain energy levels.”
Muindi emphasizes that each runner should plan their hydration strategy according to their race pace, experience, and the race-day conditions.
At KATA Portugal, Muindi teaches runners how to fine-tune their hydration plans so they don’t overhydrate but also don’t risk dehydration. He helps runners determine when and how much to drink based on their training intensity and expected race time, ensuring they develop an optimal balance of water intake, electrolyte replenishment, and fuel consumption.
Collaborative Coaching at KATA Portugal
Muindi works closely with Bob Anderson, a lifetime runner and the founder of KATA. Anderson, who started Runner’s World magazine in 1966 at the age of 17, has dedicated his life to the sport of running. His passion led him to establish KATA in Kenya in 2019, and subsequently, KATA Portugal in 2024. Anderson and his wife, Catherine, spend approximately 45% of their time at KATA, actively engaging with the running community and supporting the academy’s mission.
The academy ensures that there is always a certified Kenyan coach available, providing authentic training experiences rooted in Kenyan running culture. This collaborative environment fosters a holistic approach to training, combining Muindi’s expertise with the rich traditions of Kenyan athletics.
Beyond Running: A Retreat for All
KATA offers more than just a running camp. It also caters to hikers, walkers, and individuals seeking relaxation and a respite from the hectic world. Nestled in the village of Monforte da Beira in central Portugal, with a population of just 310 people, KATA provides the quiet environment that many people seek. This tranquil setting allows guests to unwind, explore scenic trails, and immerse themselves in the local culture, making it an ideal destination for both active and leisure pursuits.
How Muindi Teaches Nutrition at KATA Portugal
At KATA Portugal, Muindi ensures that guests learn by doing. The training program isn’t just about running—it’s also about understanding how to fuel like a champion.
• Meals at KATA Portugal follow the same principles as the Kenyan elite training camps. Guests experience a diet that emphasizes complex carbohydrates, natural proteins, and proper hydration.
• Workshops and discussions provides insight into meal timing, nutrient absorption, and the importance of eating for recovery.
• Pre-race meal planning helps runners adjust their own routines based on what has worked for world-class marathoners.
One of the most valuable lessons Muindi imparts is that nutrition is about consistency, not last-minute changes. Runners at KATA Portugal learn how to eat for performance long before race week, making proper fueling a habit rather than a stress factor.
(03/08/25) Views: 254Boris Baron
Memorable Moments from the 2025 European Athletics Indoor Championships
The 38th European Athletics Indoor Championships, held from March 6 to 9, 2025, at the Omnisport Apeldoorn arena in Apeldoorn, Netherlands, showcased a series of remarkable performances and dramatic events. This edition marked the third time the Netherlands hosted the championships, following previous editions in 1973 and 1989.
Notable Performances:
• Women’s 60 Meters: Italy’s Zaynab Dosso delivered a sensational performance, claiming the gold medal with a world-leading time of 7.01 seconds.
• Men’s 1,500 and 3,000 Meters: Norwegian standout Jakob Ingebrigtsen showcased his dominance by winning both the 1,500m and 3,000m events. In the 3,000m, he secured gold with a time of 7:48.37, marking his seventh European Indoor title at the age of 24. Britain’s George Mills earned silver, finishing just over a second behind Ingebrigtsen.
• Women’s 3,000 Meters: The final was marked by a dramatic incident involving Dutch athlete Maureen Koster, who fell and was rendered unconscious early in the race. Despite the unsettling event, Ireland’s Sarah Healy claimed gold with a time of 8:52.86, narrowly defeating Britain’s Melissa Courtney-Bryant, who secured silver. Koster was later reported to be conscious and responsive.
• Men’s 800 Meters: Irish middle-distance runner Mark English clinched the bronze medal, marking his third European indoor medal and fifth overall. He finished with a time of 1:45.46, showcasing a strong final lap.
• Women’s Triple Jump: Spain’s Ana Peleteiro secured the gold medal with a jump of 14.37 meters, her best mark of the year and the third-best worldwide. This victory adds to her impressive tally of eight international medals, including an Olympic bronze in Tokyo 2021.
• Mixed 4x400 Meters Relay: In the inaugural mixed relay event at the European Indoors, the Dutch team, anchored by Femke Bol, clinched gold with a time of 3:15.63, setting a championship record. Belgium and Great Britain secured silver and bronze, respectively.
Controversies and Challenges:
• Women’s 4x400 Meters Relay: The British team initially appeared set for gold; however, a controversial reinstatement of the Dutch team, following a disqualification for obstruction during the final takeover, led to Britain settling for silver. The Dutch team set a European Indoor record with a time of 3:24.34.
• Women’s 1,500 Meters: Georgia Hunter Bell, a favorite for gold, was hampered by an ear infection. Leading with 100 meters to go, she struggled in the final stretch, finishing off the podium as France’s Agathe Guillemot took gold.
The host nation, the Netherlands, showcased a strong performance, particularly in relay events and individual disciplines like the triple jump. Norway’s Jakob Ingebrigtsen’s continued excellence solidified their standing in middle-distance events. Ireland’s emergence, highlighted by Sarah Healy’s gold in the 3,000 meters and Mark English’s bronze in the 800 meters, marked a significant achievement for the nation.
Overall, the championships highlighted both seasoned athletes defending their titles and emerging talents making their mark on the European stage.
(03/09/25) Views: 244Boris Baron
Shelby Houlihan’s Redemption Run – Back on Track After a Four-Year Ban
With her suspension concluding on January 13, 2025, Houlihan made a remarkable return to the track. On February 1, 2025, she competed in the Razorback Invitational at the Randal Tyson Indoor Track Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Demonstrating her enduring talent and resilience, Houlihan won the 3,000 meters with a time of 8:31.56, setting a new meet record and breaking the facility record previously held by Parker Valby.
Continuing Her Comeback
Building on her initial success, Houlihan competed in the Bruce Lehane Scarlet & White Invitational on February 8, 2025. She delivered an impressive performance in the mile, finishing with a time of 4:20.30. This achievement not only set a new facility record but also marked the second-fastest indoor mile ever recorded by an American woman.
Qualifying for the World Indoor Championships
Houlihan’s comeback gained further momentum at the U.S. trials on February 22, 2025, where she competed in the 3,000 meters. She finished second with a time of 8:48.43, narrowly behind Nikki Hiltz, who won in 8:48.28. This performance qualified Houlihan for the World Indoor Championships, signaling her readiness to rejoin the international competitive arena.
Looking Ahead
Houlihan’s swift return to top form after a prolonged absence underscores her dedication and resilience. As she sets her sights on upcoming competitions, including the World Indoor Championships, the athletics community watches with anticipation to see how her journey unfolds.
(03/08/25) Views: 220Boris Baron
Anticipation Builds for the 2025 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing
The 2025 World Athletics Indoor Championships, set to take place from March 21-23 in Nanjing, China, marks the long-awaited return of the competition after a five-year hiatus. Originally scheduled for 2020, the event was postponed multiple times due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making this edition one of the most highly anticipated in recent history. With over 500 athletes from approximately 120 nations, the championships will feature world-class competition across 26 events, including the debut of the 4x400m mixed relay as an official indoor discipline.
The Venue: A World-Class Stage in Nanjing
The championships will be held at Nanjing’s Cube, a cutting-edge indoor arena within the Nanjing Youth Olympic Sports Park. Completed in 2019, the venue boasts state-of-the-art facilities designed to accommodate both athletes and spectators, providing an optimal environment for record-breaking performances.
Exciting Events and New Additions
The championship program features sprints, middle-distance races, hurdles, jumps, throws, and combined events, offering fans three days of intense competition. The 4x400m mixed relay will be contested for the first time at the indoor championships, following its successful debut in outdoor competition. The race order—man, woman, man, woman—adds a strategic element, and the world record standard has been set at 3:12.44.
Qualification and the World Indoor Tour
This year’s World Athletics Indoor Tour, now in its tenth season, plays a crucial role in the road to Nanjing. Featuring over 60 competitions across Europe, North America, and Asia, the tour provides top athletes with an opportunity to secure qualification for the championships. Nine Gold-level meetings were part of the 2025 circuit, beginning in Astana, Kazakhstan, on January 25 and concluding in Madrid, Spain, on February 28.
Athletes who finished as the top point scorers in their disciplines earned a $10,000 bonus and automatic entry into the championships. This season’s scoring disciplines included:
• Women: 60m, 800m, 3000m/5000m, pole vault, triple jump, shot put
• Men: 400m, 1500m/mile, 60m hurdles, high jump, long jump
Star Athletes to Watch
Several elite athletes have confirmed their participation, ensuring a thrilling showdown in Nanjing. Some of the biggest names expected to compete include:
Sprints and Hurdles
Grant Holloway of the United States, the reigning world champion and world record holder in the 60m hurdles, is aiming for his third consecutive world indoor title. He recently extended his 82-race unbeaten streak in the event, making him a strong favorite.
Robin Ganter of Germany, fresh off his 60m national title with a personal best of 6.56 seconds, is a rising contender in the short sprints.
Middle-Distance & Distance Races
Tsige Duguma of Ethiopia, the defending world indoor 800m champion, has been dominant in recent races, including a victory at the Copernicus Cup in Poland.
Stefan Nillessen of the Netherlands broke the national indoor 3000m record with a time of 7:37.10 and clocked a personal best of 3:52.70 in the mile, making him one to watch in the middle-distance events.
What to Expect
With record chases, title defenses, and rising stars looking to make their mark, the 2025 World Athletics Indoor Championships promises electrifying competition. Fans can expect intense battles on the track, thrilling jumps and throws, and potential record-breaking performances as the world’s best athletes gather in Nanjing for three days of world-class indoor athletics.
Stay tuned to My Best Runs for updates, race previews, and athlete insights as the countdown to Nanjing continues!
(03/08/25) Views: 182
Grete Waitz The Runner Who Changed Marathoning Forever
On a crisp October morning in 1978, an unassuming schoolteacher from Norway stepped up to the starting line of the New York City Marathon. Grete Waitz, a world-class middle-distance runner, had never raced beyond 3,000 meters. That day, she would not only cover 26.2 miles for the first time but also redefine women’s marathoning in a way no one could have predicted.
An Accidental Marathoner
At the time, Waitz was a highly accomplished track athlete, having competed in the 1972 and 1976 Olympics in the 1,500 meters. Her husband and coach, Jack Waitz, believed she had the endurance for the marathon and convinced her to give it a try. The New York City Marathon, then in its third year of running through all five boroughs, was growing in popularity, with nearly 10,000 entrants that year—including 1,240 women, a significant number in an era when women’s distance running was still fighting for recognition.
Waitz arrived in New York with no expectations, mostly treating the experience as an experiment. She was given bib “F1,” but that number did not signify any previous success in the marathon—it was merely assigned based on her status as a female elite athlete.
A Race for the Ages
Unlike today’s marathons, where elite runners typically start separately, in 1978, all competitors—professional, amateur, and first-timers alike—began together. The masses surged forward, and Waitz, running with a mix of excitement and nerves, settled into a steady pace.
She was strong early on, but by mile 18, she was frustrated. She had no idea what she was doing, she later recalled, and even threw a cup of water at her husband in irritation when he shouted encouragement. Yet, despite her doubts, she was running at a record-setting pace.
As she entered Central Park, fatigue set in, but she powered through, breaking the tape in 2 hours, 32 minutes, and 30 seconds—a world record at the time. When race director Fred Lebow greeted her at the finish line, she collapsed into his arms, exhausted and overwhelmed.
“I’ll never do another one of these,” she famously said. That promise, of course, didn’t last.
A Legacy of Dominance
That win in 1978 was just the beginning. Waitz would return to New York eight more times, winning a record nine titles between 1978 and 1988. She became the face of women’s marathoning, inspiring countless runners and proving that women not only belonged in the sport but could dominate it.
Her influence stretched beyond New York. In 1983, she won the first-ever Women’s World Championship Marathon, and a year later, she took silver in the first Women’s Olympic Marathon at the 1984 Los Angeles Games, finishing behind Joan Benoit Samuelson.
More Than a Champion
While her records and wins made her a legend, Waitz’s true impact came from the doors she opened for female distance runners. Before her era, women’s marathoning was an afterthought. The Boston Marathon had only officially allowed women to compete in 1972, and many still believed that running long distances was dangerous for women. Waitz shattered those myths.
She continued to race into her 40s and later devoted much of her time to coaching and philanthropy. In 2005, she was diagnosed with cancer, but she faced it with the same resilience she showed on the race course.
Jack Waitz: Continuing the Legacy
Grete’s husband and coach, Jack Waitz, played an instrumental role in her career, guiding her training and race strategies. Following Grete’s passing in 2011, Jack has remained deeply involved in the running community. He continues to share his expertise, offering training advice and motivational tips to runners of all levels.
Jack’s ongoing commitment ensures that Grete’s legacy endures, inspiring new generations of runners to pursue their passion for the sport.
A Lasting Inspiration
Grete Waitz passed away in 2011 at the age of 57, but her influence is still deeply felt. She was not just a marathoner; she was a trailblazer who proved that women could race—and win—on the biggest stages.
Today, the New York City Marathon regularly features over 50,000 runners, nearly half of them women, a testament to how far the sport has come since 1978. The shoes are faster, the crowds are bigger, and the elites now start separately, but the legacy of Grete Waitz remains woven into the fabric of the event she helped define.
Her first marathon may have been accidental, but her impact on the sport was anything but.
(03/12/25) Views: 180Boris Baron
Jacqueline Gareau A Champion Runner Who Found Her True Stride in Life
Jacqueline Gareau’s name is forever etched in marathon history, not just for her victory at the 1980 Boston Marathon but for the incredible grace and resilience she has shown throughout her life. From an elite runner setting records on the roads to a passionate advocate for health and wellness, Gareau’s journey is one of perseverance, redemption, and a deep love for movement.
The 1980 Boston Marathon The Champion Who Was Almost Denied
On April 21, 1980, Jacqueline Gareau stood at the starting line of the Boston Marathon, prepared to test herself on the legendary course. She ran with determination, leading the women’s field for most of the race. But when she crossed the finish line, something was wrong—another woman, Rosie Ruiz, had already been declared the winner.
Ruiz’s time of 2:31:56 was shockingly fast, raising immediate suspicions. Unlike other elite runners, she wasn’t sweating, didn’t look fatigued, and had barely been seen on the course. It soon became clear—she had not run the entire race. Instead, she had jumped into the course near the finish line, fooling officials into believing she had won.
Just over a week later, Ruiz was disqualified, and Jacqueline Gareau was officially recognized as the rightful champion with a time of 2:34:28, a new course record for women at the time.
Bob Anderson, then publisher of Runner’s World, saw Gareau shortly after the race and said, “We know who won today.” Those words carried weight, affirming that the running community had never doubted her victory.
A Career of Excellence
Winning Boston was a defining moment, but Gareau’s career was built on more than just one race.
• 1979 – She won both the Ottawa Marathon and Montreal Marathon.
• 1983 – She finished second at Boston with a personal best of 2:29:28.
• 1984 – She represented Canada at the Los Angeles Olympics, competing in the first-ever women’s Olympic marathon.
Her talent and work ethic made her one of Canada’s greatest marathoners, and her story became an inspiration for runners around the world.
From Running to Holistic Wellness
After stepping away from competitive racing, Gareau found a new passion—helping others heal. She became a massage therapist, focusing on injury prevention and recovery. Based in Sainte-Adèle, Quebec, she works with athletes and non-athletes alike, offering therapeutic massage, running form workshops, and public speaking engagements.
Her philosophy is simple but powerful: movement is life. She believes that staying active and listening to the body is the key to longevity and well-being. Her approach blends the discipline of an elite athlete with the mindfulness of a healer, making her a sought-after expert in health and fitness.
A New Passion on the Trails
While she still runs, Gareau has found another love—cross-country skiing. She often hits the trails multiple times a week, sometimes even more than she runs. The sport allows her to stay fit while enjoying nature, something she deeply values. Her love for skiing is another extension of her lifelong dedication to movement and staying active in a way that feels fulfilling.
A Lasting Impact on the Sport
Gareau’s influence extends beyond the finish line:
• Ambassador for Running and Wellness – She partners with brands, promoting footwear that supports natural movement and foot health.
• Speaker and Coach – She gives motivational talks, leads training clinics, and continues to inspire new generations of runners.
In 2005, she was honored as the Grand Marshal of the Boston Marathon, where she was invited to finally break the tape at the finish line—a symbolic gesture recognizing her rightful place in marathon history.
A True Champion On and Off the Course
Jacqueline Gareau’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and staying true to oneself. She not only overcame one of the biggest controversies in marathon history but also forged a life beyond running, helping others find balance, health, and strength.
Her story is more than just about winning a race—it’s about finding joy in movement, embracing new passions, and using her experience to uplift others. Whether through running, skiing, or holistic health, Jacqueline Gareau continues to show that being a champion is about so much more than crossing a finish line.
She wrote and sent this photo and said: "Every year, there is a trophy for the best female runner on road in Quebec. The Jacqueline Gareau trophy that I’m proud to give."
(03/13/25) Views: 176Boris Baron
Haile Gebrselassie’s Journey from Track Legend to Business Mogul
Haile Gebrselassie, renowned for his extraordinary achievements in long-distance running, has seamlessly transitioned into a successful entrepreneur, establishing a diverse business empire that significantly contributes to Ethiopia’s economy.
Athletic Achievements
Gebrselassie’s athletic career is adorned with numerous accolades:
• Olympic Gold Medals: He secured gold in the 10,000 meters at both the 1996 Atlanta and 2000 Sydney Olympics.
• World Championships: Gebrselassie clinched four World Championship titles in the 10,000 meters in 1993, 1995, 1997, and 1999.
• World Records: Throughout his career, he set 27 world records across distances ranging from 1,500 meters to the marathon. Notably, he set a marathon world record of 2:03:59 at the 2008 Berlin Marathon.
Haile Hotels and Resorts: A Fusion of Hospitality and Athletics
In 2010, Gebrselassie founded Haile Hotels and Resorts, launching the flagship resort in Hawassa. The chain has since expanded to several Ethiopian cities, including Shashemene, Ziway, Arba Minch, Gondar, Adama, and Addis Ababa. These establishments are distinguished by their integration of athletic facilities, reflecting Gebrselassie’s dedication to promoting sports and wellness. Amenities such as state-of-the-art gyms, running tracks, and sports complexes cater to both professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts, embodying a harmonious blend of luxury and athleticism.
Diverse Business Ventures
Beyond hospitality, Gebrselassie has diversified his investments:
• Automotive Industry: He owns Marathon Motors, the exclusive distributor of Hyundai vehicles in Ethiopia. The company has also ventured into assembling electric cars locally, marking a significant step in the nation’s automotive sector.
• Coffee Farming: Gebrselassie owns a coffee farm in the Masha region of Ethiopia. The 1,500-hectare farm, known as Yeppo Village, includes 200 hectares dedicated to conservation forest land. The farm produces organic and Rainforest Alliance–certified coffee, reflecting Gebrselassie’s commitment to sustainable agriculture.
• Real Estate and Education: His investments include real estate projects and the establishment of educational institutions, such as the Ayelech Degefu Memorial School, named in honor of his late mother.
Leadership and Family Involvement
Gebrselassie serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Haile and Alem International PLC, the parent company overseeing his diverse business ventures. His wife, Alem Gebrselassie, plays an active role in their joint business endeavors, contributing to the strategic direction and management of their enterprises. The couple’s collaboration extends beyond business, reflecting a partnership deeply rooted in mutual support and shared vision.
Continued Involvement in Athletics
Although Gebrselassie retired from competitive running in 2015, he remains actively involved in the athletic community. He serves as a mentor to emerging athletes and participates in various initiatives aimed at promoting sports in Ethiopia. His enduring commitment to athletics is evident in his business ventures, particularly his hotels, which serve as hubs for athletic training and events.
Haile Gebrselassie’s journey from an illustrious athletic career to a successful businessman exemplifies the potential of leveraging sports fame into impactful entrepreneurship. His ventures not only contribute to economic growth but also foster a culture of health and fitness, reflecting his enduring legacy both on and off the track.
(03/10/25) Views: 171
Stramilano Half Marathon Honored with World Athletics Heritage Plaque Ahead of 2025 Race
The Stramilano Half Marathon, one of Italy’s most prestigious road races, is set to celebrate its 52nd edition on Sunday, March 23, 2025. This year, the event will be marked by a historic recognition, as it has been awarded the World Athletics Heritage Plaque in the category of ‘Competition.’ This prestigious honor highlights Stramilano’s exceptional contribution to the global history of road running and its impact on the sport over the past five decades.
Stramilano’s Storied Legacy
First held in 1976, the Stramilano Half Marathon has been a stage for legendary performances, earning a reputation as the fastest course in Italy. In 1993, Moses Tanui became the first runner in history to break the one-hour barrier for the half marathon, clocking 59:47 on this very course. The event has consistently attracted the world’s best runners, many of whom have gone on to achieve global dominance in long-distance running.
Notable past champions include:
• Moses Tanui (Kenya) – First runner to break 60 minutes for the half marathon (1993)
• Paul Tergat (Kenya) – Six-time Stramilano winner (1994-1999), former half marathon world record holder (59:17, 1998)
• Grete Waitz (Norway) – Nine-time New York Marathon winner
• Rosa Mota (Portugal) – Olympic and World Marathon Champion
• Priscah Jeptoo (Kenya) – London Marathon winner and Olympic silver medalist
• Ruth Chepngetich (Kenya) – Former Half Marathon World Record Holder
• Rob de Castella (Australia) – Former Marathon World Champion
• Gelindo Bordin (Italy) – Olympic Marathon Gold Medalist
2025 Stramilano Half Marathon Details
This year’s edition will once again take runners through the iconic streets of Milan, starting at Piazza Castello and finishing inside the historic Arena Civica, an 18th-century Napoleonic stadium. The event offers different race categories to cater to runners of all levels:
• Half Marathon (21.097 km) – Competitive race featuring elite and amateur athletes
• 10 km Run – Non-competitive fun run starting from Piazza Duomo
• 5 km Run – Family-friendly race also starting from Piazza Duomo
The World Athletics Heritage Plaque will be permanently displayed at the Arena Civica, Viale Giorgio Byron, the race’s headquarters, following the conclusion of this year’s event.
(03/11/25) Views: 144Boris Baron
