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Marathon Handbook

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Published 4 days ago • 3 min read

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Newsletter #769: Wednesday, 25th March 2026

Hey runners, today’s newsletter moves between the big-picture stories that shape the sport and the personal ones that remind us why we run in the first place.

From nearly 1,000 runners taking the LA Marathon’s Mile 18 exit to a son returning to Boston 80 years after his father’s historic win, there’s a mix of controversy, history, and full-circle moments.

We’ve also got David Goggins revisiting a defining chapter of his life, a musician trading soundchecks for the start line, and practical reads on downhill running, setting meaningful goals, and how long it actually takes to see progress.

Jessy Carveth

Senior News Editor, Marathon Handbook

​Nearly 1,000 Runners Took the LA Marathon’s Mile 18 Exit — And Still Got a Medal​

New timing data puts a number on how many runners used the race's heat safety option. It's smaller than the internet suggested.

​A Greek Hero’s Son Returns to Boston 80 Years After His Father’s Famous Run​

When Stylianos Kyriakides won the Boston Marathon in 1946, he wasn't chasing a PR. He was trying to save his country.

​Running Downhill: Proper Technique + How to Train for It​

Being confident and skilled on descents doesn’t just keep you safer out on the trails—it can actually shave minutes off your race time.

​From Soundcheck to Start Line: Dropkick Murphys’ Jeff DaRosa Is Running Boston​

The Celtic punk musician quit drinking, found running, and is now lining up for the 2026 Boston Marathon. His goal? Beat Oprah.

​At 51, David Goggins Went Back to the Place He Once Quit​

He left pararescue training decades ago. Now he's back — older, decorated, and carrying a list of ultramarathon scars that most people couldn't imagine.

​Results From Running: How Long to See Changes​

Our run coach weighs in on how much training it takes to see improvements depending on why you started running in the first place.

​Running Goals: 15 Inspiring Goals for Every Level​

From first 5Ks to ultramarathon dreams, find the perfect goal to keep you motivated and moving forward!

​London Marathon SHOCK: Sifan Hassan OUT + NCAA Doping Scandal & Strava Military Leak​

In this episode of The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the biggest headlines in running — from a shocking London Marathon withdrawal to a wild NCAA doping controversy and one of the strangest Strava incidents ever.

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