In the mid‑1950s in St. Ann, Missouri, my world was St. Girard Lane. You didn’t need a park permit or a race bib to belong; you just… Read more “From Mickey Mouse to Mega-Marathons: How We Lost the Street Then Found Each Other Again”
Category: Commentary
When “Neutral” Feels Like Nonsense: Why the Olympic Ban on Russia and Belarus Falls Flat
The Winter Olympics are well underway, and once again we’re talking about “Individual Neutral Athletes” (AINs) from Russia and Belarus. For many, myself included, this designation feels… Read more “When “Neutral” Feels Like Nonsense: Why the Olympic Ban on Russia and Belarus Falls Flat”
THE COST OF GREAT EXPECTATIONS
America’s Ilia Malinin stepped onto Olympic ice in Milan carrying not just a five-point lead after his win in the short program, but a sense of inevitability.… Read more “THE COST OF GREAT EXPECTATIONS”
When Is Enough Enough? — The Case for Running’s 5% Reinvestment Plan
This week, two studies were released that together tell a familiar and troubling narrative about American health—but they also present the running industry with a unique opportunity… Read more “When Is Enough Enough? — The Case for Running’s 5% Reinvestment Plan”
The Running–Beer Paradox: A Tradition Under Pressure?
As 2025 hands off to 2026, the scene repeats itself at finish lines across the country: runners coming through the chutes, medals around their necks, while beer… Read more “The Running–Beer Paradox: A Tradition Under Pressure?”
The New Endurance Era: From “Foot Soldiers” to Social Seekers
Happy Boxing Day to all. Toya shared an article with me this morning that caught my attention, and perhaps will catch yours as well. It came from Athletechnews.com,… Read more “The New Endurance Era: From “Foot Soldiers” to Social Seekers”
Remembering the Good Old Days: Happy 78th, Boston Billy.
Patriots Day 1978, the Boston Marathon, back when the fields were still growing, but small enough where, as our friend Norma Friedman once said, “We knew the… Read more “Remembering the Good Old Days: Happy 78th, Boston Billy.”
MARATHON MOMENTUM CONTINUED IN 2025
The marathon did more than endure in 2025—it reasserted itself. As we await the results from this weekend’s MARATHON PROJECT in Chandler, Arizona, we can still read… Read more “MARATHON MOMENTUM CONTINUED IN 2025”
Conversation with Dr. Jim Barahal, president of the Honolulu Marathon Association
“Organized like a World Marathon Major, but has the spirit of a mom and pop race.” – Dr. Jim Barahal, speaking of the Honolulu Marathon
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MR. SHORTER
The road remains, patient as ever, unbent in its invitation, awaiting anyone willing to meet its measure.
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