Join Tim and the Marathon Mates on this episode of the Flying Runr Podcast as we take a heartfelt trip down memory lane to relive our very first marathon experiences! From what inspired us to tackle the marathon distance, to training mishaps, emotional race day moments, and the lessons we've learned along the way — we share it all. Whether you're thinking about running your first marathon, stepping up to a half or 10K, or just love running stories, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and plenty of laughs. Plus, get updates on the latest running news, listener shoutouts, and tips for making your own marathon journey unforgettable.

first marathon stories, marathon training tips, running podcast, Flying Runner Podcast, marathon motivation, race day advice, beginner marathon, running community, Gold Coast Marathon, Valencia Marathon, marathon mistakes, how to train for a marathon, emotional marathon finish, super halves, marathon planning,

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more inspiring running content! Share your first marathon experience in the comments below or connect with us on social media. For more updates, follow us on Instagram and Facebook, or email us your running stories. happyrunning@flyingrunr.com

⏱️⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS⏱️⏱️:

00:00:00 - Introduction: Marathon Memories, Podcast Hosts, and Running Community

00:07:25 - What is the David Goggins 4x4x48 Challenge? Explained

00:15:00 - Gold Coast Marathon Registration Process and Super Halves Series

00:22:30 - Valencia Marathon Results and Aussie Runners’ Achievements

00:30:00 - Why We Chose Our First Marathons: Motivations and Destinations

00:37:30 - Marathon Training Plans: Lessons Learned and Preparation Tips

00:45:00 - Race Day Emotions: Nerves, Triumphs, and Memorable Moments

00:52:30 - Final Advice for Marathoners and Upcoming Podcast Episodes

Episode Quotes

• “None of us ever expected that after completing our very first marathons, we would back it up and complete many more, let alone host a podcast or talk in front of people.”

• “I remember crying as I finished and going over the finish line just going, ‘Oh my god, I’ve just run 42.2 km.’ It’s a feeling you can’t replicate.”

• “The marathon needs to be respected because there’s so much that goes into it, and I learned that very quickly on my first one.”

• “It's a feeling you can't replicate... I don't want to compare it to something as momentous as giving birth to our children, but it was that sort of feeling like where you've just achieved what feels like something no one else has done, even though other people have done it before.”

————————————————————————————-

Read how CurraNz Blackcurrant extract improves performance. https://flyingrunr.com/2024/07/21/enhance-your-performance-with-curranz/

Special one-time code available to trial FLYINGRUN20

Find all of our Links here - https://my.linkpod.site/flyingrunr

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Music created with full commercial rights with Suno AI

This video contains no sponsored content or affiliate links.

For business inquiries, please contact us at: happyrunning@flyingrunr.com

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Join the Marathon Mates on this episode of the Flying Runr Podcast as we dive deep into what makes someone a compulsive runner! From hilarious personal stories to a fun quiz powered by ChatGPT, we explore running obsessions, the balance between passion and compulsion, and tips for enjoying the sport without letting it take over your life. Plus, get the latest news on major marathons like Cape Town, Shanghai, and Melbourne, and hear our candid takes on inclusivity in running culture. Whether you're a casual cruiser or borderline obsessed, this episode is packed with laughs, relatable moments, and practical advice for every type of runner.

TAKE THE QUIZ - https://flyingrunr.com/qsm_quiz/are-you-a-complusive-runner/

compulsive runner, running podcast, marathon mates, flying runner podcast, runner quiz, marathon news, Cape Town Marathon, Shanghai Marathon, Melbourne Marathon, inclusive running, run addiction, rest days, strava, parkrun, running shoes, running community,

Enjoyed the episode? Hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE for more running adventures, and let us know in the comments: Are you a compulsive runner or a casual cruiser? Share your score from our quiz! For more updates, follow us on Instagram and Facebook, or email us your running stories. happyrunning@flyingrunr.com

⏱️⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS⏱️⏱️:

00:00:00 - Meet the Hosts and Weekly Running Updates

00:06:47 - Cape Town and Shanghai Marathons: News and Insights

00:13:34 - Shanghai Marathon Major Status and Sub3 Jacket Debate

00:20:20 - Melbourne Marathon Festival Ballot and Entry Challenges

00:27:06 - Are You a Compulsive Runner? Fun Quiz Begins

00:33:50 - Runner Habits: Holidays, Strava, and Segment Chasing

00:40:46 - Quiz Results: Casual Cruiser to Borderline Obsessed

00:47:26 - Tips for Balanced Running and Next Week’s Preview

Episode Quotes

• You should be very proud of yourself if you can do a sub three, but you should also be very proud if you can just run a marathon no matter what speed you are. We all do things for different reasons.

• You don't need to stop running. You just need to stop needing to run if you're a compulsive person. Balance doesn't make you less of a runner; it makes you a stronger, happier one.

• For some, running isn't just for fun or a sport. It's a structure and an identity—and sometimes it's the thing we cling to when everything else feels chaotic.

• Running may be starting to run you—if you've scheduled your social life around long runs and your browser history is 90% 'Can I run through this injury?' a mini detox might be calling your name.

————————————————————————————-

Read how CurraNz Blackcurrant extract improves performance. https://flyingrunr.com/2024/07/21/enhance-your-performance-with-curranz/

Special one-time code available to trial FLYINGRUN20

Find all of our Links here - https://my.linkpod.site/flyingrunr

Featured Running Clubs coming in 2026 - Find out how to feature your club. https://flyingrunr.com/featured-running-clubs-the-running-community/

Flying Runr Tips: Quick, fun, and practical advice from Tim, Lucia & Tara — because running’s better when we learn (and laugh) together and a big thanks to Suno AI for powering our Tips Jingles

This video contains no sponsored content or affiliate links.

For business inquiries, please contact us at: happyrunning@flyingrunr.com

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Join Tara and the Marathon Mates on this episode of the Flying Runr Podcast as we welcome special guest Sharon Dorward! From her first nervous marathon at Disney World to conquering two World Marathon Majors (Chicago & Berlin), Sharon shares her honest, uplifting story as a determined back-of-the-pack runner. Hear about her race-day highs and lows, lessons learned, running club camaraderie, and why every step counts—no matter your pace. Plus, get updates from the co-hosts, running news, AI training tips, and more!

marathon podcast, Sharon Dorwood, Flying Runner Podcast, World Marathon Majors, Disney Marathon, Chicago Marathon, Berlin Marathon, running stories, back of the pack runners, running motivation, marathon training, running clubs, AI running plans, race day tips,

Enjoyed Sharon's journey? Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more inspiring running stories! Share your thoughts or questions in the comments, or reach out via our socials. Want to be featured or have a topic suggestion? Email us at happyrunning@flyingrunr.com .

⏱️⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS⏱️⏱️:

00:00:00 - Meet Sharon Dorward: Disney Dopey Challenge and World Marathon Majors Journey

00:06:20 - Weekly Running Updates, ChatGPT Training Plans, and AI in Running

00:12:40 - Running News: 200 Marathons in 200 Days & Edible Water Capsules

00:18:53 - Sharon’s Running Origin Story: From Hating Exercise to Marathon Medals

00:25:05 - Disney Dopey Challenge Memories and Chicago Marathon World Major Experience

00:31:08 - Berlin Marathon Recap: Heat, Cut-Offs, and Overcoming Race Day Challenges

00:37:23 - Finishing Berlin, Medal Drama, and the Power of Running Community

00:43:36 - Favorite Races, Volunteering, and Joining Blood, Sweat, Beers Running Club

00:49:50 - Mental Strength, Upcoming Races, and Lessons from Marathon Setbacks

00:55:57 - Quickfire Questions, Safety Tips, and Podcast Wrap-Up with Sharon

Episode Quotes

• There was a point where the second star didn’t matter to me anymore, but when I got my medal, I realized how lucky I was—sometimes, it’s just about finishing, not the finish time.

• Joining a running club gave me motivation, friendships, and accountability—it's not just about running, it's about being part of a supportive community that cheers you on every step.

• I kept telling myself, 'Finish lines, not finish times—just get it done,' and that mantra got me through when I wanted to quit in Berlin.

————————————————————————————-

Read how CurraNz Blackcurrant extract improves performance. https://flyingrunr.com/2024/07/21/enhance-your-performance-with-curranz/

Special one-time code available to trial FLYINGRUN20

Find all of our Links here - https://my.linkpod.site/flyingrunr

Featured Running Clubs coming in 2026 - Find out how to feature your club. https://flyingrunr.com/featured-running-clubs-the-running-community/

Flying Runr Tips: Quick, fun, and practical advice from Tim, Lucia & Tara — because running’s better when we learn (and laugh) together and a big thanks to Suno AI for powering our Tips Jingles

This video contains no sponsored content or affiliate links.

For business inquiries, please contact us at: happyrunning@flyingrunr.com

Join Tony and the Marathon Mates as we welcome back Sarah Coltrona to share her firsthand experience at the Cape Town Marathon, which was unexpectedly cancelled just hours before the start. In this episode, we dive into everything from the pre-race expo excitement, race day emotions, and how runners coped with the disappointment. We also discuss Cape Town’s journey toward becoming the eighth World Marathon Major, the latest running news (including Phil Gore’s ultra win and Ruth Chepngetich’s suspension), and practical tips for runners facing unexpected challenges. Whether you’re a marathon enthusiast or new to running, this episode is packed with stories, advice, and inspiration from some of the world’s most passionate runners.

Cape Town Marathon, marathon cancelled, Sarah Coltrona, World Marathon Majors, Flying Runner Podcast, running podcast, marathon training, race day tips, marathon expo, Phil Gore, ultra marathon, Ruth Chepngetich, doping in athletics, running community, runner interviews,

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more inspiring running stories! Share your thoughts or questions in the comments, and let us know if ChatGPT created a great training plan for you. For business inquiries or to share your own marathon story, contact us happyrunning@flyingrunr.com ,

⏱️⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS⏱️⏱️:

00:00:00 - Introduction and Hosts Discuss Marathon Training Updates

00:05:33 - Using ChatGPT for Personalized Running Training Plans

00:10:59 - Phil Gore's Backyard Ultra World Record Achievement

00:16:24 - Ruth Chepngetich Doping Scandal and World Record Controversy

00:21:45 - Sarah’s Marathon Journey and Choosing Cape Town Marathon

00:27:08 - Cape Town Marathon Expo Experience and Pre-Race Atmosphere

00:32:37 - Cape Town Marathon Cancellation: High Winds and Safety Concerns

00:37:56 - How Runners Coped After the Marathon Was Cancelled

00:43:20 - Post-Marathon Activities, Future Race Plans, and Quickfire Questions

00:49:04 - Tips for Handling Unexpected Race Cancellations and Podcast Wrap-Up

Episode Quotes

• “I woke up on race day, did my usual pre-race routine, and as I left my hotel room, someone told me, ‘It’s been cancelled.’ I just couldn’t believe it.”

• “You can’t put a price on someone’s life. Everyone was disappointed, but everyone took it well and the organizers did the right thing.”

• “You can either choose to let it bring you down or you can choose to keep moving forward. It’s very much like running a marathon—things don’t always go to plan, but you’ve got to pivot and find a way.”

• “There were lots of international runners there. It just felt like something special was going to happen that day, which has made it even more disappointing.”

• “Even though the marathon didn’t happen, runners and spectators still filled the streets, cheering each other on and making the most of the day. The spirit of the running community was incredible.”

————————————————————————————-

Read how CurraNz Blackcurrant extract improves performance. https://flyingrunr.com/2024/07/21/enhance-your-performance-with-curranz/

Special one-time code available to trial FLYINGRUN20

Find all of our Links here - https://my.linkpod.site/flyingrunr

Featured Running Clubs coming in 2026 - Find out how to feature your club. https://flyingrunr.com/featured-running-clubs-the-running-community/

Flying Runr Tips: Quick, fun, and practical advice from Tim, Lucia & Tara — because running’s better when we learn (and laugh) together and a big thanks to Suno AI for powering our Tips Jingles

This video contains no sponsored content or affiliate links.

For business inquiries, please contact us at: happyrunning@flyingrunr.com

—————————————————————————-

Join Tim and the Marathon Mates as Tony returns from his European marathon adventures! In this episode, we dive deep into Tony's journey across Europe, including a detailed recap of the Amsterdam Marathon—expo highlights, race day experiences, and tips for back-of-the-pack runners. We also discuss major running news: the Cape Town Marathon's weather cancellation and its implications for the coveted eighth star, trends in the New York City and Chicago marathons, and the inspiring global project by Eliud Kipchoge. Plus, hear updates on our own running journeys, listener Q&A, and practical tips for getting into sold-out races like Sydney. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just love following the world of running, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and motivation!

“We are the only podcast out there with four seven-star world marathon major runners.”

Amsterdam Marathon, New York City Marathon, Chicago Marathon, Cape Town Marathon, World Marathon Majors, running podcast, marathon recap, Eliud Kipchoge, marathon tips, race expo, back of the pack, marathon training, Sydney Marathon, major marathons, marathon medals,

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on all things running! Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below, and connect with us on social media. For business inquiries or to share your marathon story, email us at happyrunning@flyingrunr.com.

⏱️⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS⏱️⏱️:

00:00:00 - Introduction: Hosts, Recent Running Adventures, and Podcast Overview

00:06:30 - Eliud Kipchoge’s Global Marathon Project and World Running Inspiration

00:12:29 - New York City Marathon Records and Demographic Trends in Running

00:18:51 - Race Logistics: Crowds, Course Design, and Age Group Achievements

00:24:35 - Amsterdam Marathon Expo Experience and Pre-Race Day Highlights

00:30:59 - Amsterdam Marathon Race Day: Atmosphere, Course, and Crowd Support

00:37:38 - Challenges for Pack Runners and Reflections on the Amsterdam Finish

00:43:38 - Cape Town Marathon Cancellation, Provisional Stars, and Safety Decisions

00:49:32 - Chicago & New York Marathons: Elite Finishes, Seven-Star Medals, and Emotions

00:55:35 - Final Tips: Sydney Marathon Ballot, Charity Entries, and Next Episode Preview

What we talk about

“Finishing inside the Olympic Stadium in Amsterdam, with the crowd at Vondelpark cheering ‘Tony, Tony, Tony,’ was one of the best marathon atmospheres I’ve ever experienced.”

“Cape Town made the right call by canceling the race due to dangerous winds—sometimes safety has to come before medals.”

“This year’s New York City Marathon broke the world record for most finishes in a marathon, with over 59,226 finishers—thanks to surges in both young and older runners.”

————————————————————————————-

Read how CurraNz Blackcurrant extract improves performance. https://flyingrunr.com/2024/07/21/enhance-your-performance-with-curranz/

Special one-time code available to trial FLYINGRUN20

Find all of our Links here - https://my.linkpod.site/flyingrunr

Featured Running Clubs coming in 2026 - Find out how to feature your club. https://flyingrunr.com/featured-running-clubs-the-running-community/

Flying Runr Tips: Quick, fun, and practical advice from Tim, Lucia & Tara — because running’s better when we learn (and laugh) together and a big thanks to Suno AI for powering our Tips Jingles

This video contains no sponsored content or affiliate links.

For business inquiries, please contact us at: happyrunning@flyingrunr.com

In this episode, we explore the TCS Amsterdam Marathon, one of Europe’s most iconic races, and ask the question: is it welcoming for back-of-the-pack runners? With its flat and fast course, historic start and finish at the Olympic Stadium, and scenic route along the Amstel River, through leafy Vondelpark, and vibrant city neighborhoods, Amsterdam has long been a bucket-list marathon for runners chasing personal bests and unforgettable experiences.We break down everything slower runners need to know: the course logistics, official cut-off times, pacing support, and real runner experiences from both first-timers and seasoned back-of-the-pack participants. From potential challenges like time checkpoints and course congestion with half marathoners, to the incredible crowd energy and scenic stretches, we cover what it takes to finish this famous marathon at your own pace.Whether you’re aiming for a 6-hour finish or just want to soak in the Amsterdam marathon experience without the pressure of speed, this episode gives you practical tips, pacing strategies, and encouragement to help you cross the finish line with confidence. Tune in and discover why Amsterdam can be both challenging and hugely rewarding for runners of all levels.What we talk aboutWe answer the question on whether you should run the Amsterdam MarathonWe compare two different Back of the Pack StrategiesWe help you make your decision on running this iconic event————————————————————————————-Read how CurraNz Blackcurrant extract improves performance. https://flyingrunr.com/2024/07/21/enhance-your-performance-with-curranz/ Special one-time code available to trial FLYINGRUN20Find all of our Links here - https://my.linkpod.site/flyingrunr Featured Running Clubs coming in 2026 - Find out how to feature your club. https://flyingrunr.com/featured-running-clubs-the-running-community/ Flying Runr Tips: Quick, fun, and practical advice from Tim, Lucia & Tara — because running’s better when we learn (and laugh) together and a big thanks to Suno AI for powering our Tips JinglesThis video contains no sponsored content or affiliate links.For business inquiries, please contact us at: happyrunning@flyingrunr.com

Join Tara and the Marathon Mates on episode 122 of the Flying Runr Podcast as they dive deep into practical tips for improving your pacing consistency. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned runner, learn how to set realistic pacing goals, use technology like smartwatches, train with treadmills, and develop habits that boost endurance and speed. Featuring insights from four seven-star World Major Marathon medalists, this episode is packed with actionable advice, personal experiences, and expert strategies to help you run smarter and stronger.

running pacing, pacing consistency, how to pace your run, endurance training, marathon tips, running podcast, smartwatch running tips, interval training, treadmill training, rate of perceived exertion, running motivation, Flying Runner Podcast,

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more running tips! Share your pacing questions or tips in the comments, and connect with us on Instagram or Facebook. For business inquiries, email us at happyappyrunning@flyingrunr.com.

What we talk about

• Building habits and consistency is a great way to improve performance—your body will start to feel that as a natural pace, and you’ll be able to step it up over time.

• Running consistently beats running perfectly—if you run a consistent race, you will actually run a perfect race because you won’t have the ups and downs where you get lots of fatigue or soreness along the way.

• You can program your watch with your target pace, so if you go too fast or too slow, it will beep at you—taking the guesswork out of pacing and helping you stay consistent.

⏱️⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS⏱️⏱️:

00:00:00 - Introduction to Pacing Consistency for Runners

00:00:30 - Benefits of Running at a Consistent Pace

00:02:00 - Using Treadmills and Technology for Pace Training

00:04:00 - Building Endurance and Speed with Structured Sessions

00:06:40 - Programming Watches and Interval Training Tips

00:10:00 - Mastering Pacing on Tracks, Roads, and Hills

00:15:00 - Using Rate of Perceived Exertion and Music for Pacing

00:20:00 - Consistency, Rewards, and Listener Q&A Wrap-Up

————————————————————————————-

Read how CurraNz Blackcurrant extract improves performance. https://flyingrunr.com/2024/07/21/enhance-your-performance-with-curranz/

Special one-time code available to trial FLYINGRUN20

Find all of our Links here - https://my.linkpod.site/flyingrunr

Featured Running Clubs coming in 2026 - Find out how to feature your club. https://flyingrunr.com/featured-running-clubs-the-running-community/

Flying Runr Tips: Quick, fun, and practical advice from Tim, Lucia & Tara — because running’s better when we learn (and laugh) together and a big thanks to Suno AI for powering our Tips Jingles

This video contains no sponsored content or affiliate links.

For business inquiries, please contact us at: happyrunning@flyingrunr.com

Welcome to Episode 121 of the Flying Runr Podcast, brought to you by the Marathon Mates! Whether you're new to running or looking to level up your race day experience, this episode is packed with practical tips, honest advice, and a few laughs from runners who have conquered world major marathons. Join Tony, Tim, Tara, and Lucia as they discuss must-know running hacks, training myths, gear essentials, nutrition, and all those little things runners do but rarely talk about openly. From Strava basics to chafing solutions, hydration mistakes, and the truth about losing toenails—this is your go-to guide for happier, smarter running.

running tips, beginner running advice, marathon training, race day tips, Flying Runr Podcast, Marathon Mates, Strava for runners, hydration for runners, running shoes lifespan, compression socks, chafing prevention, treadmill running, nutrition for runners, how to register for races,

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more running insights! Share your questions in the comments or email us at happyrunning@flyingrunr.com (runner is 'runr'). Connect with us on social media and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover next!

What we talk about

• There really isn’t anything such as a dumb question when it comes to running.

• If it's not on Strava, did it really happen?

• Slowing down actually does make you run faster, believe it or not.

⏱️⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS⏱️⏱️:

00:00:00 - Essential Running Tips and Tricks for Race Day Success

00:01:00 - How to Use Strava: Tracking Runs, Challenges, and Social Features

00:03:00 - Predicted Race Times: Ethics, Corrals, and Marathon Entry Requirements

00:06:40 - Running Shoes Expiry: When to Replace for Injury Prevention

00:11:40 - Warm-Ups, Stretching, and Training Techniques for Runners

00:18:20 - Hydration, Nutrition, and Common Health Questions for Runners

00:26:40 - Chafing, Rain Running, Compression Socks, and Other Runner FAQs Answered

————————————————————————————-

Read how CurraNz Blackcurrant extract improves performance. https://flyingrunr.com/2024/07/21/enhance-your-performance-with-curranz/

Special one-time code available to trial FLYINGRUN20

Find all of our Links here - https://my.linkpod.site/flyingrunr

Featured Running Clubs coming in 2026 - Find out how to feature your club. https://flyingrunr.com/featured-running-clubs-the-running-community/

Flying Runr Tips: Quick, fun, and practical advice from Tim, Lucia & Tara — because running’s better when we learn (and laugh) together and a big thanks to Suno AI for powering our Tips Jingles

This video contains no sponsored content or affiliate links.

For business inquiries, please contact us at: happyrunning@flyingrunr.com