Advice from the Marathon Legends

I've had the chance to shake the hands of some of Running's greatest legends. While I didn't get to say much more than "Hello" (because I was in such awe) I will always appreciate and never forget meeting such elite athletes. I still have my 1998 New York City Marathon bib signed by Frank Shorter wishing me well in the race the next day. Other running legends I've had the privilege to meet during my marathon journeys include Grete Waitz, Alberto Salazar, Joan Benoit Samuelson, and Dean Karnazes. Listed below are some words of wisdom and advice for all runners from these running greats.

Frank Shorter—“Remember that the more consistent you are in your training, the less you must rely on a perfect training run every day.”

Check out this great video clip of Shorter giving some solid marathon running advice.



Grete Waitz—“Running should become a long term thing. Make it a part of your lifestyle. Running is a great activity. I still get the same satisfaction of accomplishment no matter how fast I run. Don’t expect to enjoy every run, but enjoy what running does for you.”
Check out this clip recapping Grete's 9 wins at the NYC Marathon.



Alberto Salazar—“You've got to be prepared to train as hard or harder than anyone else, but you've also got to complement the training with recovery time.”
Check out this clip of Salazar's 1981 record-setting win at NYC.



Joan Benoit Samuelson— “During the marathon, I would see myself running easily on my favorite ten-mile loop. Then I would picture myself on a six-mile loop, followed by another ten-mile trail run. Dividing it up in my mind that way made the race seem shorter and more enjoyable.”
Check out this video clip of Joan winning the very first women's Olympic Marathon.


Dean Karnazes—“What I've found is that I'm never more alive than when I'm pushing and I'm in pain, and I'm struggling for high achievement, and in that struggle I think there's a magic.”

Check out this clip of Dean telling a group how to run 200 miles.