The Long Run: And The Decade the Marathon Became Cool.
Ever wonder how a sport that once seemed on the fringes transformed into a global phenomenon? Or how icons like Steve Prefontaine, Frank Shorter, Joan Benoit, Grete Waitz, and Bill Rodgers, influenced not just running, but the culture and identity of a generation?
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In this episode, we dive into Martin Dugard, New York Times best-selling author's new book, The Long Run, which reveals the untold stories and powerful moments that made running what it is today - a testament to human potential, rebellion, and perseverance.
In this episode:
- The legendary counterculture of Prefontaine and his role in shaping the identity of runners
- How the 1970s initiated the running boom and its evolution across decades
- The influence of iconic figures like Joan Benoit, Greta Weitz, Frank Shorter, and Bill Rogers
- The shift from solo, rebellious runs to a collective global movement - fueled by technology, pop culture, and social change
- Surprising myths about marathon history and the quirky origins of the 26.2-mile standard
- The role of women in the rise of running and why their participation was historically underestimated
Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just lacing up your first pair of kicks, The Long Run reminds us that running is much more than a sport - it's a mirror of life itself. It’s about showing up, pushing limits, and becoming a little better with each step.
So keep moving forward, embrace the long run, and remember - in a world of runners, it's cool to be a RUNEGADE.
Find more Martin here:
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