Embark on an exhilarating exploration of the second in our series of Running the Majors, the Boston Marathon, the world's oldest annual marathon and a beacon of athletic excellence.

Join Coach Christine and Ashley from Mystical Dream Travel as we journey through its rich history, starting from its inception in 1897 to monumental moments like Roberta Gibb's pioneering run in 1966 and the city's inspiring resilience post the 2013 bombing.

We'll celebrate Des Linden's triumphant 2018 victory, delve into Boston's unique role in shaping women's distance running, and honor the community spirit that makes this race unlike any other. This episode promises an engaging mix of history, personal anecdotes, and a shared love for the marathon experience.

Get ready to master the Boston Marathon with insider tips and essential strategies that ensure you're fully prepared for race day. We discuss the importance of hill repeats, the necessity of packing for unpredictable weather, and the art of navigating the course's logistics without official pacers.

Discover the best neighborhoods to immerse yourself in Boston's vibrant culture and culinary scene, and learn how to capture unforgettable marathon moments.

Whether you're competing for a coveted unicorn medal or simply soaking up the atmosphere, this episode equips you with everything you need to tackle the marathon with confidence.

Want to keep this "major" conversation going? Join the Women of the World Marathon Majors or the Stride Collective.

Plus, check out our highlighted Boston 2025 runner, Emily Brennan in the bonus episode.

Join us as we continue on our journey of Running the Majors Series, next stop. London!

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Emily Brennan's journey into the world of marathon running is nothing short of inspirational. After college, she took up running to get healthier, finding it was more than just a physical endeavor; it became a balm for stress and a mental clarity booster. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of running, highlighting how it has become an integral part of her life and well-being. From her initial races with Team Alzheimer's to securing a coveted spot in the Boston Marathon, Emily's dedication shines through.

The push to run the Boston Marathon was fueled by a heartfelt mission—raising funds for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Emily's determination to support cancer research was sparked by the battles faced by her close friend's father and her cousin, making every mile run deeply personal. She shares the challenges of balancing rigorous training with the demands of fundraising, likening it to juggling multiple part-time jobs. Yet, the joy of being unexpectedly offered a charity spot filled her with gratitude and reinforced her commitment to making a difference in the fight against cancer.

If you’d like to support Emily’s mission, you can donate directly through her Dana-Farber Fundraising Page and follow her updates on Instagram and Facebook.

As Emily prepares to tackle the infamous Heartbreak Hill, she reflects on the camaraderie and support of the running community. Training with a team that shares her passion for fighting cancer has been invigorating, bringing her closer to like-minded individuals whose personal stories inspire her further. Throughout her training journey, Emily has embraced positive self-talk, focusing on enjoying the marathon experience rather than chasing personal records. Her story encourages us all to savor the moment and use our passions to contribute to causes that matter deeply.

Have questions or want to chat? Send me a text!

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Join the newsletter list for updates, special offers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Join fellow pod and running enthusiasts at The Stride Collective community on Facebook or follow us on Instagram.

Ever wondered how it feels to run through the heart of Tokyo, where bustling city life meets ancient tradition on one of the world's fastest marathon courses? Join us as Coach Christine and Ashley from Mystical Dream Travel guide you through the exhilarating Tokyo Marathon experience. Together, we unravel the storied evolution of the marathon from its 2007 beginnings to its status as a must-run race on the global marathon calendar as it joined the Abbott World Marathon Majors. With 38,000 runners vying for a spot, it's a race that blends fierce competition with the serene beauty of Tokyo.

Embark on a journey as we explore the intricacies of the Tokyo Marathon course, from the imposing skyscrapers of Shinjuku to the historic allure of Sensoji Temple, all set to the rhythmic accompaniment of taiko drummers. Discover strategies for tackling the unpredictable early March weather and learn the secrets to maintaining energy with local on-course staples like Pocari Sweat. We'll also equip you with insights into Tokyo's unique sweep policy and offer essential race day tips to ensure you're primed for success in this challenging yet rewarding environment.

Prepare for your Tokyo runcation with our expert packing guide, where we share essential travel tips and cultural etiquette to help you navigate this vibrant city with ease. Whether it's packing the right gear, securing accommodations in Shinjuku, or understanding the local customs at Tokyo Disneyland, we've got you covered.

Join the conversation with fellow marathon enthusiasts on platforms like the Women of World Marathon Majors and the Stride Collective, and get ready to set your sights on the next marathon in this special WMM series, Boston!

Have questions or want to chat? Send me a text!

Support the show

Join the newsletter list for updates, special offers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Join fellow pod and running enthusiasts at The Stride Collective community on Facebook or follow us on Instagram.