We’re a little heartbroken not to be running Heartbreak Hill on Monday, but there are still plenty of ways to celebrate the Boston Marathon. Whether you’re running your own solo race or just putting your feet up, we have some suggestions on how to get your Boston fix this weekend.
Books
Marathon Woman
This book is about so much more than the Boston Marathon, but the story of how K.V. Switzer’s 26.2 mile run changed running history is the centerpiece of this classic.
Running to the Edge
Michael Futterman’s profile of Bob Larsen was my favorite running book of 2019. The author sets his study of a legendary coach and the evolution of distance training within the story of his own journey to Boston in 2018. Futterman’s writing is engrossing and moving--I missed my subway stop more than once while reading this book on my commute!
Duel in the Sun
Before Alberto Salazar was coaching the Nike Oregon Project he was running royalty--an All-American, Olympian, and American record-holder. His stride-for-stride race against underdog Dick Beardsley at the 1982 Boston Marathon remains one of the most iconic races in Boston’s history. Reading Duel in the Sun now comes with the burden and knowledge of recent history, but the book remains an enlightening look at a man’s obsessive drive to win.
My Marathon
Boston can be an unforgiving opponent, and the father of America’s running boom, Frank Shorter, never even had a particularly good race there. His memoir is a stark and moving account of the joys and heartaches of an incredible life and running career.
Podcasts
Finding Mastery: Des Linden
Host Michael Gervais takes a deep dive with Des Linden following her Boston victory in 2018 in a frank conversation on persistence, vulnerability, winning, and losing.
The Morning Shakeout: Sarah Sellers
Mario Fraioli interviews Sarah Sellers about her surprise 2nd place finish at Boston in 2018 and how it affected her life and career after. This episode is a great reminder that even runners on the podium experience the same challenges and doubts as the middle of the pack.
Running Rogue: Boston Course Strategy
It’s never too early to start planning for September! This episode has some great Boston Marathon history as well as a detailed course strategy for the race.
Running Rogue: Inspiring Stories from the Boston Marathon
If you need some inspiration for your long run this weekend, listen to these stories of Roberta Gibb, Katherine Switzer, Joan Benoit, and Bill Rogers.
The Morning Shakeout: Scott Fauble
This interview with an audibly-still-jubilant Scott Fauble after his seventh place finish at Boston last year is a delight. He discusses training, recovery, and how he takes his successes and failures in stride.
