282. Africa's First World Major? Cape Town Marathon Race Director Clark Gardner

In this conversation, Clark Gardner, CEO and race director of the Cape Town Marathon, shares his journey into the world of running events and the significance of the Cape Town Marathon as a potential World Marathon Major. He discusses the challenges of logistics, participant experience, and the vibrant running community in South Africa. Gardner emphasizes the importance of creating an authentic African experience for participants and highlights the beauty and safety of Cape Town as a tourist destination.  Takeaways Clark Gardner's journey combines business and passion for running events.The Cape Town Marathon aims to be Africa's first World Marathon Major.Logistics and crowd management are critical for marathon success.The marathon will feature a diverse and authentic African experience.Cape Town's weather in May is ideal for marathon running.The course showcases Cape Town's stunning landscapes and landmarks.Safety in Cape Town is prioritized for international visitors.Tourism opportunities abound in Cape Town, including wine tours and safaris.The running community in South Africa is vibrant and supportive.Participants can expect a unique cultural experience during the marathon. If you enjoyed this type of information, please consider subscribing to our channel for more race recaps,  running news, running shoe reviews, and more! We are now on YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@Lettyruns·  Our website: www.marathonmedia.us ·  Our Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast/ ·  Our Amazon Storefront: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/runningpodcast·  Join our Facebook group: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/speedstriders/ ·  Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@RunningPodcast Discount Codes for Runners: https://www.runswag.com

Hit the wall early in your last hot marathon? We're bringing in a pro to ensure that never happens again!On this episode, I sit down with legendary high-performance running coach Foon Fu to dissect the single most critical adjustment for non-ideal race conditions: Pace Strategy on a Hot Marathon Day. Foon has spent two decades working with champions like Mo Farah, Sharon Lokedi, and Jake Robertson, and collaborating with top teams including Bowerman Track Club, NAZ Elite, and ZAP Fitness. He shares his elite-level insights on how to dynamically adjust your pace plan when the temperature spikes, why you should throw your original goal pace out the window, and the exact mindset shifts used by the world's best to finish strong instead of fading in the heatIf you enjoyed this type of information, please consider subscribing to our channel for more race recaps,  running news, running shoe reviews, and more! We are now on YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@Lettyruns·  Our website: www.marathonmedia.us ·  Our Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast/ ·  Our Amazon Storefront: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/runningpodcast·  Join our Facebook group: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/speedstriders/ ·  Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@RunningPodcast Discount Codes for Runners: https://www.runswag.com

Are you ready to conquer the Chicago Marathon?! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ This is your ultimate, no-holds-barred guide to everything you need to know about preparing for, navigating, and absolutely crushing your Chicago experience! ✨🤩For your convenience, there is a youtube video out there to accompany this for visuals and there are time stamps to skip to the topics of your choice, so feel free to check that out.Email Link:[email protected] (Used for updating information and general contact)Websites/URLs:https://www.millenniumhallchicago.com/pastadinner (Official Pasta Dinner tickets)https://www.eataly.com/us_en/classes-and-events/chicago/the-marathon-dinner-tickets (Eataly Chicago dinner tickets)https://www.chicago5k.com/ (Abbott Chicago 5K information)https://www.chicagomarathon.com/get-involved/volunteers/volunteer-registration (Volunteer registration)View the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon professional field roster. (Implied link, as it's a call to action)https://www.choosechicago.com/articles/sports-and-recreation/the-chicago-marathon/ (Spectator Guide)nbcchicago.com (NBC 5 Chicago live stream)telemundochicago.com (Telemundo Chicago live stream)https://www.facebook.com/share/19CEcVATGD/ (Hair braiding event)chicagomarathon.com (Implied link for the main event website, mentioned multiple times including for the schedule, spectator access, and the app)CTA’s website (Implied link for the full list of 'L' stations)Download the Chicago Marathon app (Implied link to the app store)If you enjoyed this type of information, please consider subscribing to our channel for more race recaps,  running news, running shoe reviews, and more! We are now on YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@Lettyruns·  Our website: www.marathonmedia.us ·  Our Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast/ ·  Our Amazon Storefront: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/runningpodcast·  Join our Facebook group: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/speedstriders/ ·  Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@RunningPodcast Discount Codes for Runners: https://www.runswag.com

Are your running shoes "dead" at 500 miles? Many runners lose sleep over the famous mileage rule, treating it as a non-negotiable expiration date. In this episode, we deconstruct the infamous 300 to 500-mile myth and expose how the running industry's business model of planned obsolescence has influenced this idea. We'll dive into the real science of shoe breakdown—from midsole compression to a runner's unique biomechanics—to uncover why a one-size-fits-all mileage rule is deeply flawed.Instead of a number, we give you the practical tools to know when a shoe is truly worn out. Learn the key signs of fatigue and discover why your body is the ultimate sensor for shoe health. We also explore the proven benefits of a shoe rotation for extending the life of your gear and reducing your risk of injury. Join us to change your mindset, save money, and gain a new perspective on your most essential piece of running equipment.SourcesGlobal Running Shoe Market Value: Grand View Research. "Running Shoe Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product, By End-user, By Distribution Channel, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030."COVID-19 Pandemic Sales Data: NPD Group. "Running Shoe Sales Up 24% for Women, 16% for Men as COVID-19 Continues to Accelerate the Trend."Runner Demographics: RunRepeat. "The State of Running 2020."Midsole Cushioning Breakdown: Heeluxe. "How Long Do Running Shoes Last?"Shoe Cushioning and Injury Risk: Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy. "A Review of the Literature on Running Shoe Cushioning and its Relationship to Running Injuries."Shoe Rotation Injury Reduction: Malisoux, L. et al. "Can parallel use of different running shoes decrease running-related injury risk?" Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports.Running Impact Force: University of Colorado Boulder. "Biomechanical Comparison of the Running Ground Reaction Forces."If you enjoyed this type of information, please consider subscribing to our channel for more race recaps,  running news, running shoe reviews, and more! We are now on YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@Lettyruns·  Our website: ⁠www.marathonrunningpodcast.com⁠ ·  Our Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast/ ·  Our Amazon Storefront: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/runningpodcast·  Join our Facebook group: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/speedstriders/ ·  Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@RunningPodcast Discount Codes for Runners: https://www.runswag.com

Have you ever been lucky enough to get into two major marathons in one season, like Sydney and Chicago or Berlin and New York? It's a great problem to have, but it presents a unique challenge: how do you train for and race both?On this episode, I'm joined by running coach Chris Knighton, who shares his expert advice on tackling this marathon double. We discuss the A-Race and B-Race strategy, the importance of prioritizing recovery, and the mental and physical considerations of running two marathons within just a few weeks of each other. Coach Knighton also gives his perspective on why dropping out of a race can sometimes be the smartest move and the best ways to deal with jet lag and recovery.Whether you're doubling up on races or just looking to improve your recovery game, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss.Guest Info: ⁠https://www.instagram.com⁠/knightonruns If you enjoyed this type of information, please consider subscribing to our channel for more race recaps,  running news, running shoe reviews, and more! We are now on YOUTUBE: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@Lettyruns⁠·  Our website: ⁠www.marathonmedia.us⁠ ·  Our Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast/⁠ ·  Our Amazon Storefront: ⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/runningpodcast⁠·  Join our Facebook group: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/speedstriders/⁠ ·  Youtube ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@RunningPodcast⁠ Discount Codes for Runners: ⁠https://www.runswag.com⁠

Get the definitive race recap of the 2025 TCS Sydney Marathon, now a new World Marathon Major! On this episode, we take you behind the scenes to Australia for a full week of running. We cover the pre-race chaos, our shakeout runs through the city, the elite athlete press conference, and all the epic "shenanigans" of race week. Then, we dive behind the scenes of the press conference, elite runners such as Eliud Kipchoge and Sifan Hassan, and race day . If you're looking for a detailed race report and a complete breakdown of our Sydney marathon experience, this is the episode for you.If you enjoyed this type of information, please consider subscribing to our channel for more race recaps,  running news, running shoe reviews, and more! We are now on YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@Lettyruns·  Our website: ⁠www.marathonrunningpodcast.com⁠ ·  Our Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast/ ·  Our Amazon Storefront: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/runningpodcast·  Join our Facebook group: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/speedstriders/ ·  Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@RunningPodcast Discount Codes for Runners: https://www.runswag.com

Ever wondered what’s actually going on inside your body during a marathon? In this episode, we break down the science of running 26.2 miles—from your heart and lungs to your muscles, brain, and fueling strategies. Learn how pacing, breathing, nutrition, and mental focus all come together to help you finish stronger and smarter.Whether you’re a first-time marathoner or chasing a personal best, this episode gives you actionable tips for training, racing, and recovering like a pro. We cover:How your heart adapts to long-distance running and why pacing mattersLung efficiency and breathing strategies to sustain energyMuscle fiber roles and fuel sources to delay fatigueMental tricks to push through tough milesSmart fueling and hydration strategies before and during the raceRecovery tactics to bounce back fasterTune in for science-backed insights, practical advice, and the inside scoop on what your body really goes through during a marathon.Guest Info: https://www.instagram.com/patrickdavittphd/ If you enjoyed this type of information, please consider subscribing to our channel for more race recaps,  running news, running shoe reviews, and more! We are now on YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@Lettyruns·  Our website: ⁠www.marathonrunningpodcast.com⁠ ·  Our Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast/ ·  Our Amazon Storefront: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/runningpodcast·  Join our Facebook group: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/speedstriders/ ·  Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@RunningPodcast Discount Codes for Runners: https://www.runswag.com

In this episode, we sit down with renowned expert Patrick Davitt to dive deep into the science of human performance. Dr. Patrick M. Davitt is the Program Director of Exercise Physiology at Saint Joseph's University, specializing in energy metabolism and fitness testing. With a PhD in nutritional physiology and biochemistry and over 15 years of experience, he is an ACSM Fellow and CSCS-certified expert known for his research on ultra-endurance athletes and nutritional strategies. We dive into the questions every runner has, including:What does it truly mean to be "fat-adapted," and is it right for you?Why the "eat before every run" rule isn't always necessary for all workouts.The ideal fueling strategies for different types of runs, from easy recovery jogs to high-intensity intervals.How a fat-adapted runner's race-day strategy differs from that of a carb-loader.Potential side effects and mistakes to avoid when changing your fueling approach.Dr. Davitt's ultimate advice for every runner, no matter their goals or experience level.Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just getting started, this episode is packed with expert insight to help you unlock your best performance.Guest Info: https://www.instagram.com/patrickdavittphd/ If you enjoyed this type of information, please consider subscribing to our channel for more race recaps,  running news, running shoe reviews, and more! We are now on YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@Lettyruns·  Our website: ⁠www.marathonrunningpodcast.com⁠ ·  Our Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast/ ·  Our Amazon Storefront: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/runningpodcast·  Join our Facebook group: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/speedstriders/ ·  Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@RunningPodcast Discount Codes for Runners: https://www.runswag.com

This week on The Marathon Running Podcast, we tackle the most misunderstood phase of marathon training: the taper. Host [Insert Host Name Here] compares this final stage to the difference between cramming and consolidating for a major exam, sharing a personal story about how his own failed taper taught him the hard way that less is truly more. For solo runners like Letty, mastering the taper is especially crucial, as it’s the final step to ensure your body is primed for an independent race. We dive into the science of supercompensation, explaining how resting unlocks your full physiological potential by rebuilding muscle, replenishing glycogen, and boosting your immune system.Whether you're battling the "taper crazies" or feeling anxious about the reduced mileage, this episode is a deep dive into the practical blueprint and mental strategies you need to arrive at the starting line feeling strong, confident, and ready for your best race. Trust the process, because the taper isn't about losing fitness—it's about unlocking it for that final, glorious solo effort.Here are our research citations: 📚 ReferencesWang, Z., Wang, Y., Gao, W., & Zhong, Y. (2023). Effects of tapering on performance in endurance athletes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLOS ONE, 18(5), e0282838.Smyth, B., et al. (2021). Longer disciplined tapers improve marathon performance for recreational runners. Frontiers in Sports and Active Living.Bosquet, L., Montpetit, J., Arvisais, D., & Mujika, I. (2007). Effects of tapering on performance: A meta-analysis. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.Mujika, I., & Padilla, S. (2003). Scientific bases for precompetition tapering strategies. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.Le Meur, Y., et al. (2012). Effect of two taper strategies on physiological and performance responses in middle-distance runners. European Journal of Applied Physiology.Coyle, E. F. (1991). Carbohydrate supplementation during exercise. Journal of Applied Physiology.Martin, L., et al. (2011). Effects of tapering on performance: A meta-analysis. Journal of Sports Sciences.Shephard, R. J. (2000). Tapering and the immune system. Sports Medicine. • • Nieman, D. C. (2007). Immunology of exercise. Immunology and Cell Biology.If you enjoyed this type of information, please consider subscribing to our channel for more race recaps,  running news, running shoe reviews, and more! We are now on YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@Lettyruns·  Our website: ⁠www.marathonrunningpodcast.com⁠ ·  Our Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast/ ·  Our Amazon Storefront: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/runningpodcast·  Join our Facebook group: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/speedstriders/ ·  Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@RunningPodcast Discount Codes for Runners: https://www.runswag.com

Our guest: @ericaweitzrunsThis episode of The Marathon Running Podcast is your essential guide to turning summer heat into your greatest competitive advantage. We sit down with running coach Erica Weitz to break down the science behind how summer training is the secret to a breakthrough fall racing season. Coach Weitz explains the critical physiological adaptations that happen when you train in the heat, such as increased plasma volume and improved thermoregulation, and how these directly translate to a more efficient and powerful performance on a cooler race day. We discuss the strategic role of a summer training block within an annual plan—is it a base phase, a specific prep phase, or a nuanced combination? You’ll also learn which metrics she monitors to ensure athletes are successfully building the resilience needed for a strong fall performance, and her evidence-based strategies for safe and effective heat acclimation.Beyond the physiology, Coach Weitz delves into the practicalities of transitioning from summer endurance to fall speed. She outlines the typical progression of intensity and specificity that prepares an athlete for the demands of a goal race, from building an aerobic engine to integrating race-specific paces without risking overtraining. We also discuss the often-overlooked role of strength and conditioning in summer for preventing breakdown and enhancing power for faster fall paces. Finally, Erica shares her philosophy on how to cultivate the mental fortitude gained from the "summer grind" and avoid common pitfalls as excitement for fall races builds, ensuring you show up to the start line physically and mentally prepared for your best performance.If you enjoyed this video, please consider subscribing to our channel for more race recaps,  running news, running shoe reviews, and more! We are now on YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@Lettyruns·  Our website: ⁠www.marathonrunningpodcast.com⁠ ·  Our Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast/ ·  Our Amazon Storefront: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/runningpodcast·  Join our Facebook group: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/speedstriders/ ·  Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@RunningPodcast Discount Codes for Runners: https://www.runswag.com