This week, Becs talks with three Team Inspire athletes about their experiences running the TCS New York City Marathon: Danish Hussain Yar, Alan Kaufman, and Nicole Ver Kuilen. Team Inspire is a diverse group of marathoners with compelling stories—each story representing one mile of the 26.2-mile course. Danish grew up in northern Afghanistan and first discovered the TCS New York City Marathon through a video she watched as a teenager. After escaping Taliban rule, she became a student at Cornell University and a runner ambassador for Free to Run, a nonprofit that advances gender equity worldwide. Alan, a Forest Hills, Queens, resident, ran his first marathon in 1992. After being diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma in 2017 and given six months to live, he defied the odds and completed his 33rd New York City Marathon this year. Nicole, a bone cancer survivor and Para triathlon national champion who waited 16 years for a prosthesis built for running, now leads a campaign expanding access to prosthetic and orthotic care. 

 

 

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DISCLAIMER

This week, Becs talks with three Team Inspire athletes about their experiences running the TCS New York City Marathon: Danish Hussain Yar, Alan Kaufman, and Nicole Ver Kuilen. Team Inspire is a diverse group of marathoners with compelling stories&mdash;each story representing one mile of the 26.2-mile course. Danish grew up in northern Afghanistan and first discovered the TCS New York City Marathon through a video she watched as a teenager. After escaping Taliban rule, she became a student at Cornell University and a runner ambassador for Free to Run, a nonprofit that advances gender equity worldwide. Alan, a Forest Hills, Queens, resident, ran his first marathon in 1992. After being diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma in 2017 and given six months to live, he defied the odds and completed his 33rd New York City Marathon this year. Nicole, a bone cancer survivor and Para triathlon national champion who waited 16 years for a prosthesis built for running, now leads a campaign expanding access to prosthetic and orthotic care.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
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FOLLOW NYRR:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/nyrr/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NewYorkRoadRunners/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nyrr">X</a> | <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkroadrunners">TikTok</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nyrrvideo/podcasts">YouTube</a> SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/set-the-pace/id1703616687">Apple Podcasts </a>or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2k1UziVCr4wYtMM5Awr2MA?si=871db22f44c049b1">Spotify</a>. <a href="https://www.nyrr.org/setthepace">DISCLAIMER</a>

Three Team Inspire Runners Relive Their TCS New York City Marathon

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/dc1b3f8c-8a2d-4298-8405-b17000ea5872/clips/1ce46155-5540-4853-bfb8-b4f8017a3cbb/transcript

Olympian Carrie Tollefson sits down with the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon champions, Sheila Chepkirui, Andreas Almgren, Catherine Debrunner, and Marcel Hug, along with top Americans Jess McClain and Zouhair Talbi, shortly after they conquered the iconic course. Through focus, determination, and grit, these athletes delivered remarkable performances on the best day of the year, in the best city in the world, as the race celebrated the 50th anniversary of the five-borough New York City Marathon.

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SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

DISCLAIMER

Olympian Carrie Tollefson sits down with the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon champions, Sheila Chepkirui, Andreas Almgren, Catherine Debrunner, and Marcel Hug, along with top Americans Jess McClain and Zouhair Talbi, shortly after they conquered the iconic course. Through focus, determination, and grit, these athletes delivered remarkable performances on the best day of the year, in the best city in the world, as the race celebrated the 50th anniversary of the five-borough New York City Marathon. FOLLOW NYRR: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nyrr/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NewYorkRoadRunners/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nyrr">X</a> | <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkroadrunners">TikTok</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nyrrvideo/podcasts">YouTube</a> SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/set-the-pace/id1703616687">Apple Podcasts </a>or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2k1UziVCr4wYtMM5Awr2MA?si=871db22f44c049b1">Spotify</a>. <a href="https://www.nyrr.org/setthepace">DISCLAIMER</a>

How the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon Champs Conquered the Course

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/dc1b3f8c-8a2d-4298-8405-b17000ea5872/clips/87237762-1b73-4d51-8a4a-b4f6001dae1c/transcript

2026 Abbott Dash to the Finish Line 5K champions Habtom Samuel and Rachael Rudel join Olympian Carrie Tollefson and Citius Mag's Chris Chavez live at the finish line in Central Park just minutes after their wins!

 

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DISCLAIMER

2026 Abbott Dash to the Finish Line 5K champions Habtom Samuel and Rachael Rudel join Olympian Carrie Tollefson and Citius Mag's Chris Chavez live at the finish line in Central Park just minutes after their wins!
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FOLLOW NYRR: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nyrr/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NewYorkRoadRunners/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nyrr">X</a> | <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkroadrunners">TikTok</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nyrrvideo/podcasts">YouTube</a> SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/set-the-pace/id1703616687">Apple Podcasts </a>or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2k1UziVCr4wYtMM5Awr2MA?si=871db22f44c049b1">Spotify</a>. <a href="https://www.nyrr.org/setthepace">DISCLAIMER</a>

Champion Interviews -  2026 Abbott Dash to the Finish 5K Livestream Watch Party

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/dc1b3f8c-8a2d-4298-8405-b17000ea5872/clips/2bb08672-5db5-4ff0-887e-b4f40175fe43/transcript

Conner Mantz Returns to New York After A Record-Breaking Year!

This episode of Set the Pace Presented by Peloton is brought to you by Shokz and was recorded live from the TCS New York City Marathon Expo Presented by New Balance. Becs sits down with professional runner Conner Mantz, who finished as the top American in 2024 at his TCS New York City Marathon debut, clocking 2:09:00. Mantz won two NCAA cross country titles while he was a student-athlete at Brigham Young University. He went on to set two American records in 2025—one at the Houston Half Marathon (59:17) and the other at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon (2:04:43), breaking a marathon record that had stood for 23 years. Since then, stress fractures sidelined him from running the Boston Marathon. This Sunday, Mantz returns to New York for his first marathon since his record-breaking performance in Chicago, and he walks through the course for you, mile by mile.

 

FOLLOW NYRR: Instagram | Facebook | X | TikTok | YouTube
SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

DISCLAIMER

Conner Mantz Returns to New York After A Record-Breaking Year! This episode of Set the Pace Presented by Peloton is brought to you by Shokz and was recorded live from the TCS New York City Marathon Expo Presented by New Balance. Becs sits down with professional runner Conner Mantz, who finished as the top American in 2024 at his TCS New York City Marathon debut, clocking 2:09:00. Mantz won two NCAA cross country titles while he was a student-athlete at Brigham Young University. He went on to set two American records in 2025&mdash;one at the Houston Half Marathon (59:17) and the other at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon (2:04:43), breaking a marathon record that had stood for 23 years. Since then, stress fractures sidelined him from running the Boston Marathon. This Sunday, Mantz returns to New York for his first marathon since his record-breaking performance in Chicago, and he walks through the course for you, mile by mile.
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FOLLOW NYRR: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nyrr/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NewYorkRoadRunners/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nyrr">X</a> | <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkroadrunners">TikTok</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nyrrvideo/podcasts">YouTube</a> SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/set-the-pace/id1703616687">Apple Podcasts </a>or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2k1UziVCr4wYtMM5Awr2MA?si=871db22f44c049b1">Spotify</a>. <a href="https://www.nyrr.org/setthepace">DISCLAIMER</a>

Conner Mantz’s Mile-by-Mile Guide to the TCS New York City Marathon

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/dc1b3f8c-8a2d-4298-8405-b17000ea5872/clips/bebba806-1c02-49b0-9f8e-b4f3000d51d3/transcript

In this episode, we continue to spotlight runners who put purpose behind their miles and the organizations that make up the more than 670 Official Charity Partners of the TCS New York City Marathon. Rob and Becs sit down with four members of Fred’s Team—Hope Guzzle, Caroline Stevens,  Mike Kloepfer, and NYRR Team Inspire member Sheena Lawrick—as they share stories of what’s inspiring them to run 26.2 miles on November 1 to raise funds for cancer research. Fred’s Team, the official running program of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK), was the first Official Charity Partner of the New York City Marathon and takes its name from New York Road Runners’ own Fred Lebow, who was treated for brain cancer at MSK in 1991. Fred’s Team was founded in 1995 following Fred’s death from brain cancer the year before. Since then, Fred's Team runners have raised $139 million. 

Pre-Race Pasta Party | AMNH - https://www.amnh.org/calendar/pre-race-pasta-party?sourcenumber=77947&utm_campaign=fy27_pastaparty_public&utm_medium=weblisting&utm_source=nyrr

Hope's Fundraising page: https://give.mskcc.org/site/TR/FredsTeam/FredsTeam?pg=personal&amp;px=5944602&amp;fr_id=4472


Kate and Caroline's Team - https://give.mskcc.org/site/TR/FredsTeam/FredsTeam?pg=team&fr_id=4472&team_id=114405


Sheena's Fundraising page - https://give.mskcc.org/site/TR/FredsTeam/FredsTeam?pg=personal&px=5733645&fr_id=4472

Mikey's Team  - https://give.mskcc.org/site/TR?pg=team&fr_id=4472&team_id=109333

 

 

FOLLOW NYRR: Instagram | Facebook | X | TikTok | YouTube
SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

DISCLAIMER

 

In this episode, we continue to spotlight runners who put purpose behind their miles and the organizations that make up the more than 670 Official Charity Partners of the TCS New York City Marathon. Rob and Becs sit down with four members of Fred&rsquo;s Team&mdash;Hope Guzzle, Caroline Stevens, &nbsp;Mike Kloepfer, and NYRR Team Inspire member Sheena Lawrick&mdash;as they share stories of what&rsquo;s inspiring them to run 26.2 miles on November 1 to raise funds for cancer research. Fred&rsquo;s Team, the official running program of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK), was the first Official Charity Partner of the New York City Marathon and takes its name from New York Road Runners&rsquo; own Fred Lebow, who was treated for brain cancer at MSK in 1991. Fred&rsquo;s Team was founded in 1995 following Fred&rsquo;s death from brain cancer the year before. Since then, Fred's Team runners have raised $139 million.&nbsp;
Pre-Race Pasta Party | AMNH - <a href="https://www.amnh.org/calendar/pre-race-pasta-party?sourcenumber=77947&amp;utm_campaign=fy27_pastaparty_public&amp;utm_medium=weblisting&amp;utm_source=nyrr">https://www.amnh.org/calendar/pre-race-pasta-party?sourcenumber=77947&amp;utm_campaign=fy27_pastaparty_public&amp;utm_medium=weblisting&amp;utm_source=nyrr</a>
Hope's Fundraising page:&nbsp;<a href="https://give.mskcc.org/site/TR/FredsTeam/FredsTeam?pg=personal&amp;amp;px=5944602&amp;amp;fr_id=4472">https://give.mskcc.org/site/TR/FredsTeam/FredsTeam?pg=personal&amp;amp;px=5944602&amp;amp;fr_id=4472</a>
 Kate and Caroline's Team - <a href="https://give.mskcc.org/site/TR/FredsTeam/FredsTeam?pg=team&amp;fr_id=4472&amp;team_id=114405">https://give.mskcc.org/site/TR/FredsTeam/FredsTeam?pg=team&amp;fr_id=4472&amp;team_id=114405</a>
 Sheena's Fundraising page - <a href="https://give.mskcc.org/site/TR/FredsTeam/FredsTeam?pg=personal&amp;px=5733645&amp;fr_id=4472">https://give.mskcc.org/site/TR/FredsTeam/FredsTeam?pg=personal&amp;px=5733645&amp;fr_id=4472</a> Mikey's Team &nbsp;- <a href="https://give.mskcc.org/site/TR?pg=team&amp;fr_id=4472&amp;team_id=109333">https://give.mskcc.org/site/TR?pg=team&amp;fr_id=4472&amp;team_id=109333</a>
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FOLLOW NYRR: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nyrr/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NewYorkRoadRunners/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nyrr">X</a> | <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkroadrunners">TikTok</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nyrrvideo/podcasts">YouTube</a> SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/set-the-pace/id1703616687">Apple Podcasts </a>or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2k1UziVCr4wYtMM5Awr2MA?si=871db22f44c049b1">Spotify</a>. <a href="https://www.nyrr.org/setthepace">DISCLAIMER</a>
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Fred’s Team Runners Turn Miles Into Impact for Memorial Sloan Kettering  Cancer Center

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/dc1b3f8c-8a2d-4298-8405-b17000ea5872/clips/8b7391d1-df7e-47dc-b325-b4ea01801419/transcript

In this week’s episode, we continue to spotlight runners who put purpose behind their miles and the organizations that make up the more than 670 Official Charity Partners of the TCS New York City Marathon. Rob is joined by guests from Back on My Feet, including CEO Nathan Watt, volunteer Diana Cruz Solash, and member Tim Blackmore. Back on My Feet is a national nonprofit that uses running, community, and workforce development to help people experiencing homelessness and addiction build a path toward stability and independence. Nathan reflects on the organization’s growth and impact over the years, while Tim shares his personal journey from addiction and recovery to rebuilding his life through running. He also talks about training for his first TCS New York City Marathon while fundraising for Back on My Feet. Diana opens up about what inspired her to volunteer with the organization and the meaningful impact she has witnessed firsthand. She discusses how Back on My Feet has transformed the lives of program members while also enriching her own life and sense of community.

FOLLOW NYRR: Instagram | Facebook | X | TikTok | YouTube
SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

DISCLAIMER

In this week&rsquo;s episode, we continue to spotlight runners who put purpose behind their miles and the organizations that make up the more than 670 Official Charity Partners of the TCS New York City Marathon. Rob is joined by guests from Back on My Feet, including CEO Nathan Watt, volunteer Diana Cruz Solash, and member Tim Blackmore. Back on My Feet is a national nonprofit that uses running, community, and workforce development to help people experiencing homelessness and addiction build a path toward stability and independence. Nathan reflects on the organization&rsquo;s growth and impact over the years, while Tim shares his personal journey from addiction and recovery to rebuilding his life through running. He also talks about training for his first TCS New York City Marathon while fundraising for Back on My Feet. Diana opens up about what inspired her to volunteer with the organization and the meaningful impact she has witnessed firsthand. She discusses how Back on My Feet has transformed the lives of program members while also enriching her own life and sense of community. FOLLOW NYRR: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nyrr/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NewYorkRoadRunners/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nyrr">X</a> | <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkroadrunners">TikTok</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nyrrvideo/podcasts">YouTube</a> SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/set-the-pace/id1703616687">Apple Podcasts </a>or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2k1UziVCr4wYtMM5Awr2MA?si=871db22f44c049b1">Spotify</a>. <a href="https://www.nyrr.org/setthepace">DISCLAIMER</a>

How Back on My Feet Impacts Lives Through Running

If you’re training for the TCS New York City Marathon or another fall marathon, this episode of Set the Pace is for you! Rob sits down with Dr. Jordan Metzl, a nationally recognized sports medicine physician at Hospital for Special Surgery and a member of New York Road Runners’ Medical Advisory Council. A 14-time Ironman finisher who has run over 40 marathons, Dr. Metzl is also the author of several books, including his latest, “Push,” which came out earlier this year. He talks about how runners can distinguish healthy training discomfort from pain that signals a more serious injury. They discuss common running injuries, including runner’s knee, IT band syndrome, and Achilles problems; when to seek medical attention; and why getting the right diagnosis before treatment is critical. Dr. Metzl also explains the role of strength training, cross-training, and rest and recovery during the taper, and shares advice for runners experiencing pain during a marathon. As race day approaches, he emphasizes the importance of listening to your body, adjusting expectations when necessary, and, above all, making it to the starting line healthy.

FOLLOW NYRR: Instagram | Facebook | X | TikTok | YouTube
SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

DISCLAIMER

If you&rsquo;re training for the TCS New York City Marathon or another fall marathon, this episode of Set the Pace is for you! Rob sits down with Dr. Jordan Metzl, a nationally recognized sports medicine physician at Hospital for Special Surgery and a member of New York Road Runners&rsquo; Medical Advisory Council. A 14-time Ironman finisher who has run over 40 marathons, Dr. Metzl is also the author of several books, including his latest, &ldquo;Push,&rdquo; which came out earlier this year. He talks about how runners can distinguish healthy training discomfort from pain that signals a more serious injury. They discuss common running injuries, including runner&rsquo;s knee, IT band syndrome, and Achilles problems; when to seek medical attention; and why getting the right diagnosis before treatment is critical. Dr. Metzl also explains the role of strength training, cross-training, and rest and recovery during the taper, and shares advice for runners experiencing pain during a marathon. As race day approaches, he emphasizes the importance of listening to your body, adjusting expectations when necessary, and, above all, making it to the starting line healthy.
FOLLOW NYRR: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nyrr/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NewYorkRoadRunners/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nyrr">X</a> | <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkroadrunners">TikTok</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nyrrvideo/podcasts">YouTube</a> SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/set-the-pace/id1703616687">Apple Podcasts </a>or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2k1UziVCr4wYtMM5Awr2MA?si=871db22f44c049b1">Spotify</a>. <a href="https://www.nyrr.org/setthepace">DISCLAIMER</a>

Everything You Need to Know for the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon—Ortho Edition

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/dc1b3f8c-8a2d-4298-8405-b17000ea5872/clips/61e7e585-a98f-4532-a854-b4dd000102e2/transcript

Counting down to the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon, Set the Pace is shining a spotlight on the runners who put purpose behind every mile by raising funds for the race’s more than 670 Official Charity Partners. This week, Rob is joined by Christopher Sheridan of the American Heart Association (AHA), NYRR Hall of Famer and Olympic medalist Jenny Simpson, and NYRR Medical Director Dr. Matt Friedman for an important discussion about cardiac arrest, CPR, and the power of being prepared. Christopher shares how the AHA’s Team Heart & Stroke is building a community of survivors and lifesavers, while Jenny recounts her sudden cardiac arrest at a running event in June and the people whose courage and quick action saved her life. Dr. Friedman explains how bystanders, hands-only CPR, and automated external defibrillators (AEDs) can dramatically improve survival and what New York Road Runners is doing to prepare for medical emergencies during its races. 

Learn more about Team Heart and Stroke here! https://www2.heart.org/site/TR?fr_id=13309&pg=entry

FOLLOW NYRR: Instagram | Facebook | X | TikTok | YouTube
SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

DISCLAIMER

Counting down to the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon, Set the Pace is shining a spotlight on the runners who put purpose behind every mile by raising funds for the race&rsquo;s more than 670 Official Charity Partners. This week, Rob is joined by Christopher Sheridan of the American Heart Association (AHA), NYRR Hall of Famer and Olympic medalist Jenny Simpson, and NYRR Medical Director Dr. Matt Friedman for an important discussion about cardiac arrest, CPR, and the power of being prepared. Christopher shares how the AHA&rsquo;s Team Heart &amp; Stroke is building a community of survivors and lifesavers, while Jenny recounts her sudden cardiac arrest at a running event in June and the people whose courage and quick action saved her life. Dr. Friedman explains how bystanders, hands-only CPR, and automated external defibrillators (AEDs) can dramatically improve survival and what New York Road Runners is doing to prepare for medical emergencies during its races. Learn more about Team Heart and Stroke here! <a href="https://www2.heart.org/site/TR?fr_id=13309&amp;pg=entry">https://www2.heart.org/site/TR?fr_id=13309&amp;pg=entry</a> FOLLOW NYRR: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nyrr/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NewYorkRoadRunners/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nyrr">X</a> | <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkroadrunners">TikTok</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nyrrvideo/podcasts">YouTube</a> SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/set-the-pace/id1703616687">Apple Podcasts </a>or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2k1UziVCr4wYtMM5Awr2MA?si=871db22f44c049b1">Spotify</a>. <a href="https://www.nyrr.org/setthepace">DISCLAIMER</a>

How Runners Can Save Lives

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/dc1b3f8c-8a2d-4298-8405-b17000ea5872/clips/83239b40-516c-4394-ad2a-b4d5016fa07d/transcript

Behind the Scenes  of the 2026 UTMB - The world summit of trail running with Becs Gentry, Margot Fleming and Jeremiah Maestre.

This week, Rob interviews Becs and friends about their passion for ultramarathon running. Joining the conversation is Margot Fleming, an ultrarunner and coach based in Los Angeles whose father, Tom Fleming, won the New York City Marathon in 1973 and again in 1975. Margot ran the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon, marking 50 years since her father’s first win. Just a few weeks ago, she completed the full 170-kilometer loop of the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB). Also joining the discussion is Jeremiah Maestre, who recently completed his first CCC (Courmayeur–Champex–Chamonix) race, a 100-kilometer course that follows part of the UTMB route. A former boxer from Orange County, California, Jeremiah ran his first marathon in Maui in December 2022 and has since completed the Marathon des Sables twice and the Canyons 100 Mile. They discuss what it takes to qualify for these races, the physical and mental demands of running through steep and technical terrain, the difficulty of navigating unpredictable weather, and the logistics of fueling for hours on the trail. They also explore what drew them to trail running and the sense of community, camaraderie, and connection that comes from tackling these challenges. 



 

FOLLOW NYRR: Instagram | Facebook | X | TikTok | YouTube
SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

DISCLAIMER

Behind the Scenes&nbsp; of the 2026 UTMB - The world summit of trail running with Becs Gentry, Margot Fleming and Jeremiah Maestre. This week, Rob interviews Becs and friends about their passion for ultramarathon running. Joining the conversation is Margot Fleming, an ultrarunner and coach based in Los Angeles whose father, Tom Fleming, won the New York City Marathon in 1973 and again in 1975. Margot ran the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon, marking 50 years since her father&rsquo;s first win. Just a few weeks ago, she completed the full 170-kilometer loop of the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB). Also joining the discussion is Jeremiah Maestre, who recently completed his first CCC (Courmayeur&ndash;Champex&ndash;Chamonix) race, a 100-kilometer course that follows part of the UTMB route. A former boxer from Orange County, California, Jeremiah ran his first marathon in Maui in December 2022 and has since completed the Marathon des Sables twice and the Canyons 100 Mile. They discuss what it takes to qualify for these races, the physical and mental demands of running through steep and technical terrain, the difficulty of navigating unpredictable weather, and the logistics of fueling for hours on the trail. They also explore what drew them to trail running and the sense of community, camaraderie, and connection that comes from tackling these challenges.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;
FOLLOW NYRR:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/nyrr/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NewYorkRoadRunners/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nyrr">X</a> | <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkroadrunners">TikTok</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nyrrvideo/podcasts">YouTube</a> SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/set-the-pace/id1703616687">Apple Podcasts </a>or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2k1UziVCr4wYtMM5Awr2MA?si=871db22f44c049b1">Spotify</a>. <a href="https://www.nyrr.org/setthepace">DISCLAIMER</a>

Becs Gentry & Friends Take Us Way Beyond the Marathon Distance 

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/dc1b3f8c-8a2d-4298-8405-b17000ea5872/clips/6dbf5c60-d16a-4db3-803b-b4ce018291da/transcript

With the marathon just weeks away, Rob is joined by Ted Metellus, NYRR’s chief event production officer and race director, for a comprehensive guide to race week and race day. They reflect on the significance of the 50th anniversary of the New York City Marathon’s 5-boro course, then dive into everything runners need to know—from special activations at the marathon expo and engaging marathon week events to understanding race-day transportation options, course logistics, and more. Ted and Rob also share tips for first-time and returning runners, including how to plan your race weekend, navigate the course’s bridges and hills, and stay focused on your “why.” Plus, they preview post-race activities and the ways runners, spectators, and the city can come together to celebrate this milestone year. Whether you’re racing or cheering, this episode will help get you ready for November 1.

Save 20% on fuel at maurten.com, using the email address you registered with for the marathon. Offer excludes the Bicarb System and cannot be combined with other offers.

2026 TCS NYC Marathon Virtual Training Panel  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tcs-new-york-city-marathon-expert-panel-tickets-1990585352374

 

 

 

FOLLOW NYRR: Instagram | Facebook | X | TikTok | YouTube
SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

DISCLAIMER

With the marathon just weeks away, Rob is joined by Ted Metellus, NYRR&rsquo;s chief event production officer and race director, for a comprehensive guide to race week and race day. They reflect on the significance of the 50th anniversary of the New York City Marathon&rsquo;s 5-boro course, then dive into everything runners need to know&mdash;from special activations at the marathon expo and engaging marathon week events to understanding race-day transportation options, course logistics, and more. Ted and Rob also share tips for first-time and returning runners, including how to plan your race weekend, navigate the course&rsquo;s bridges and hills, and stay focused on your &ldquo;why.&rdquo; Plus, they preview post-race activities and the ways runners, spectators, and the city can come together to celebrate this milestone year. Whether you&rsquo;re racing or cheering, this episode will help get you ready for November 1.
Save 20% on fuel at maurten.com, using the email address you registered with for the marathon. Offer excludes the Bicarb System and cannot be combined with other offers.
2026 TCS NYC Marathon Virtual Training Panel &nbsp;https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tcs-new-york-city-marathon-expert-panel-tickets-1990585352374
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FOLLOW NYRR:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/nyrr/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NewYorkRoadRunners/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nyrr">X</a> | <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@newyorkroadrunners">TikTok</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nyrrvideo/podcasts">YouTube</a> SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/set-the-pace/id1703616687">Apple Podcasts </a>or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2k1UziVCr4wYtMM5Awr2MA?si=871db22f44c049b1">Spotify</a>. <a href="https://www.nyrr.org/setthepace">DISCLAIMER</a>

Everything You Need to Know to Prepare for the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/dc1b3f8c-8a2d-4298-8405-b17000ea5872/clips/69ba7197-4b1c-4eff-a1bc-b4c80167889e/transcript

NYRR Set the Pace Presented by Peloton is the official podcast of New York Road Runners. Join hosts Rob Simmelkjaer, CEO of New York Road Runners, and Becs Gentry, Peloton Instuctor, every Thursday in conversation with inspiring athletes, from everyday enthusiasts to elite marathoners, to hear stories of perseverance, drive, and dedication. Each episode also includes an NYRR Member Moment spotlight and pro tip from 2009 New York City Marathon champ and Olympic medalist Meb Keflezighi.

Set the Pace

It all started with a devastating diagnosis in the fall of 2020. Multiple chemo treatments, a stem cell transplant and many marathon finish lines later,  Peter joins NYRR CEO Rob Simmelkjaer for a special LIVE  taping of 850 Million Reasons to Run.

Rob and Peter  dive into  the “memento mori” moment that reframed the meaning of Peter's life, turning a business leader into a global philanthropist with one singular quest- to turn his new found love of running into a global movement to empower life-saving medical research.

 

Let's unlock money for medical research! 

Learn More, and Sign Up here-  https://www.beyourpossible.com/runforresearch

New York Road Runners does not benefit from Be Your Possible donations or unlocked funds. 
NYRR is elevating Peter's story as part of our joint vision to create positive change through running.
 
Signing up for Be Your Possible's Run For Research  is free to all  - there is no financial obligation for any runner who chooses to participate.

It all started with a devastating diagnosis in the fall of 2020. Multiple chemo treatments, a stem cell transplant and many marathon finish lines later, &nbsp;Peter joins NYRR CEO Rob Simmelkjaer for a special LIVE &nbsp;taping of 850 Million Reasons to Run.
Rob and Peter &nbsp;dive into &nbsp;the &ldquo;memento mori&rdquo; moment that reframed the meaning of Peter's life, turning a business leader into a global philanthropist with one singular quest- to turn his new found love of running into a global movement to empower life-saving medical research.
&nbsp;
Let's unlock money for medical research!&nbsp;
Learn More, and Sign Up here- &nbsp;<a href="https://www.beyourpossible.com/runforresearch">https://www.beyourpossible.com/runforresearch</a>
<hr>
New York Road Runners does not benefit from Be Your Possible donations or unlocked funds.&nbsp; NYRR is elevating Peter's story as part of our joint vision to create positive change through running. &nbsp; Signing up for Be Your Possible's Run For Research &nbsp;is free to all &nbsp;- there is no financial obligation for any runner who chooses to participate.

Memento Mori  | Episode 5 - Recorded LIVE

What happens when the person who saves your life is someone you’ve never met?

A year after his transplant, Peter is finally allowed to contact the donor whose stem cells now run through his body and an eight‑page letter, dashed off at 38,000 feet, transforms into the meeting of two, forever connected humans.

How do you pay it forward after the unthinkable? What do we owe others when someone else's good deed changes a man, a family and a future, forever? For Peter, the answer is RUN.

 

Let's unlock money for medical research! 

Learn More, and Sign Up here-  https://www.beyourpossible.com/runforresearch

New York Road Runners does not benefit from Be Your Possible donations or unlocked funds. 
NYRR is elevating Peter's story as part of our joint vision to create positive change through running.
 
Signing up for Be Your Possible's Run For Research  is free to all  - there is no financial obligation for any runner who chooses to participate.

DISCLAIMER 

What happens when the person who saves your life is someone you&rsquo;ve never met?
A year after his transplant, Peter is finally allowed to contact the donor whose stem cells now run through his body and an eight‑page letter, dashed off at 38,000 feet, transforms into the meeting of two, forever connected humans.
How do you pay it forward after the unthinkable? What do we owe others when someone else's good deed changes a man, a family and a future, forever? For Peter, the answer is RUN.
&nbsp;
Let's unlock money for medical research!&nbsp;
Learn More, and Sign Up here- &nbsp;<a href="https://www.beyourpossible.com/runforresearch">https://www.beyourpossible.com/runforresearch</a>
<hr>
New York Road Runners does not benefit from Be Your Possible donations or unlocked funds.&nbsp; NYRR is elevating Peter's story as part of our joint vision to create positive change through running. &nbsp; Signing up for Be Your Possible's Run For Research &nbsp;is free to all &nbsp;- there is no financial obligation for any runner who chooses to participate.
<a href="https://www.nyrr.org/setthepace">DISCLAIMER&nbsp;</a>

The Man Who Said Yes | Episode 4

Ninety nine seconds—that’s all Peter’s lungs can manage on his first post-transplant run. But  the shock of those agonizing 200 meters ignites an out‑loud promise to himself: Peter pledges he will run the 2021 TCS New York City Marathon, just 12 weeks away.

Starting with small steps, Peter shrinks the city into single‑block laps, keeping the  memory of coughing up blood in reserve as inspiration to keep moving forward, step by step, to the start line on Staten Island.

Race day erupts in tears and cannons and unexpected angels.  Peter attempts to leave the patient behind on the roads, and to cross the finish line into a new story.

 

Let's unlock money for medical research! 

Learn More, and Sign Up here-  https://www.beyourpossible.com/runforresearch

New York Road Runners does not benefit from Be Your Possible donations or unlocked funds. 
NYRR is elevating Peter's story as part of our joint vision to create positive change through running.
 
Signing up for Be Your Possible's Run For Research  is free to all  - there is no financial obligation for any runner who chooses to participate.

DISCLAIMER 

Ninety nine seconds&mdash;that&rsquo;s all Peter&rsquo;s lungs can manage on his first post-transplant run. But&nbsp; the shock of those agonizing 200 meters ignites an out‑loud promise to himself: Peter pledges he will run the 2021 TCS New York City Marathon, just 12 weeks away.
Starting with small steps, Peter shrinks the city into single‑block laps, keeping the &nbsp;memory of coughing up blood in reserve as inspiration to keep moving forward, step by step, to the start line on Staten Island.
Race day erupts in tears and cannons and unexpected angels. &nbsp;Peter attempts to leave the patient behind on the roads, and to cross the finish line into a new story.
&nbsp;
Let's unlock money for medical research!&nbsp;
Learn More, and Sign Up here- &nbsp;<a href="https://www.beyourpossible.com/runforresearch">https://www.beyourpossible.com/runforresearch</a>
<hr>
New York Road Runners does not benefit from Be Your Possible donations or unlocked funds.&nbsp; NYRR is elevating Peter's story as part of our joint vision to create positive change through running. &nbsp; Signing up for Be Your Possible's Run For Research &nbsp;is free to all &nbsp;- there is no financial obligation for any runner who chooses to participate.
<a href="https://www.nyrr.org/setthepace">DISCLAIMER&nbsp;</a>

850 Million Reasons to Run is the true story of Peter's journey—not just to the start line of the TCS New York City Marathon, but back to life itself. It’s about what happens when everything changes in an instant… and how running became the thread that helped put it all back together.

 Ninety Nine Seconds | Episode 3

A Tour de France postcard is all Peter clutches as he steps back through the hospital doors, determined to earn a permanent cure. He’s about to take on the most demanding stage yet, flanked by bossy nurses, amazed pulmonologists, his devoted cavapoo, and his wife, Torun—all rooting for him along this personal, indoor Tour.

(It will feel like the toughest climb—until he laces up for the 2022 TCS New York City Marathon…but that’s the next episode.)

This Tour de France doesn’t just aim to save Peter’s life—it promises to change it forever.

 

Let's unlock money for medical research! 

Learn More, and Sign Up here-  https://www.beyourpossible.com/runforresearch

New York Road Runners does not benefit from Be Your Possible donations or unlocked funds. 
NYRR is elevating Peter's story as part of our joint vision to create positive change through running.
 
Signing up for Be Your Possible's Run For Research  is free to all  - there is no financial obligation for any runner who chooses to participate.

DISCLAIMER 

A Tour de France postcard is all Peter clutches as he steps back through the hospital doors, determined to earn a permanent cure. He&rsquo;s about to take on the most demanding stage yet, flanked by bossy nurses, amazed pulmonologists, his devoted cavapoo, and his wife, Torun&mdash;all rooting for him along this personal, indoor Tour.
(It will feel like the toughest climb&mdash;until he laces up for the 2022 TCS New York City Marathon&hellip;but that&rsquo;s the next episode.)
This Tour de France doesn&rsquo;t just aim to save Peter&rsquo;s life&mdash;it promises to change it forever.
&nbsp;
Let's unlock money for medical research!&nbsp;
Learn More, and Sign Up here- &nbsp;<a href="https://www.beyourpossible.com/runforresearch">https://www.beyourpossible.com/runforresearch</a>
<hr>
New York Road Runners does not benefit from Be Your Possible donations or unlocked funds.&nbsp; NYRR is elevating Peter's story as part of our joint vision to create positive change through running. &nbsp; Signing up for Be Your Possible's Run For Research &nbsp;is free to all &nbsp;- there is no financial obligation for any runner who chooses to participate.
<a href="https://www.nyrr.org/setthepace">DISCLAIMER&nbsp;</a>

Tour De France  | Episode 2

Meet Peter Kirk - a father, a New Yorker, and a runner - who found himself facing something far bigger than 26.2 miles. 

850 Million Reasons to Run is the true story of Peter's journey—not just to the start line of the TCS New York City Marathon, but back to life itself. It’s about what happens when everything changes in an instant… and how running became the thread that helped put it all back together.

Told in his own words—and through the voices of those closest to him—this is not your typical race story.

We're so excited to announce our brand new audio docuseries, NYRR Set the Pace Presents: 850 Million Reasons to Run, the first audio documentary from East 89th St Productions, an NYRR Studio.


 

Let's unlock money for medical research! 

Learn More, and Sign Up here-  https://www.beyourpossible.com/runforresearch

New York Road Runner does not benefit from Be Your Possible donations or unlocked funds. 
NYRR is elevating Peter's story as part of our joint vision to create positive change through running.
 
Signing up for Be Your Possible, Run For Research  is free to all  - there is no financial obligation for any runner who chooses to participate.

DISCLAIMER 

Meet Peter Kirk - a father, a New Yorker, and a runner - who found himself facing something far bigger than 26.2 miles.&nbsp;
850 Million Reasons to Run is the true story of Peter's journey&mdash;not just to the start line of the TCS New York City Marathon, but back to life itself. It&rsquo;s about what happens when everything changes in an instant&hellip; and how running became the thread that helped put it all back together.
Told in his own words&mdash;and through the voices of those closest to him&mdash;this is not your typical race story.
We're so excited to announce our brand new audio docuseries, NYRR Set the Pace Presents: 850 Million Reasons to Run,&nbsp;the first audio documentary from East 89th St Productions, an NYRR Studio. 
&nbsp;
Let's unlock money for medical research!&nbsp;
Learn More, and Sign Up here- &nbsp;<a href="https://www.beyourpossible.com/runforresearch">https://www.beyourpossible.com/runforresearch</a>
<hr>
New York Road Runner does not benefit from Be Your Possible donations or unlocked funds.&nbsp; NYRR is elevating Peter's story as part of our joint vision to create positive change through running. &nbsp; Signing up for Be Your Possible, Run For Research &nbsp;is free to all &nbsp;- there is no financial obligation for any runner who chooses to participate.
<a href="https://www.nyrr.org/setthepace">DISCLAIMER&nbsp;</a>

Decimated | Episode 1

We're so excited to announce our brand new audio docuseries, NYRR Set the Pace Presents: 850 Million Reasons to Run! 

This powerful five-part audio documentary shares the extraordinary story of Peter Kirk: entrepreneur, proud New Yorker, father of three, cancer survivor, stem cell transplant recipient, and marathoner.

 

This special spin-off offers an intimate and deeply moving portrait of Peter’s journey—one that began with a sudden, life-threatening diagnosis and led to the finish line of the TCS New York City Marathon less than a year later. 

 

Told in Peter’s own voice, and with heartfelt insight from his wife Torun and his stem cell transplant donor Sam, the series charts a course through illness, hope, and the healing power of movement.

We're so excited to announce our brand new audio docuseries, NYRR Set the Pace Presents: 850 Million Reasons to Run!&nbsp;
This powerful five-part audio documentary shares the extraordinary story of Peter Kirk: entrepreneur, proud New Yorker, father of three, cancer survivor, stem cell transplant recipient, and marathoner.
&nbsp;
This special spin-off offers an intimate and deeply moving portrait of Peter&rsquo;s journey&mdash;one that began with a sudden, life-threatening diagnosis and led to the finish line of the TCS New York City Marathon less than a year later.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Told in Peter&rsquo;s own voice, and with heartfelt insight from his wife Torun and his stem cell transplant donor Sam, the series charts a course through illness, hope, and the healing power of movement.

The  true story of Peter Kirk's  journey—not just to the start line of the TCS New York City Marathon, but back to life itself. It’s about what happens when everything changes in an instant… and how running became the thread that helped put it all back together.

850 Million Reasons To Run

NYRR Set the Pace Presented by Peloton is the official podcast of New York Road Runners. Join hosts Rob Simmelkjaer, CEO of New York Road Runners, and Becs Gentry, Peloton Instructor, every Thursday in conversation with inspiring athletes, from everyday enthusiasts to elite marathoners, to hear stories of perseverance, drive, and dedication. Each episode also includes an NYRR Member Moment spotlight and pro tip from 2009 New York City Marathon champ and Olympic medalist Meb Keflezighi.

NYRR Set the Pace Presented by Peloton is the official podcast of New York Road Runners. Join hosts Rob Simmelkjaer, CEO of New York Road Runners, and Becs Gentry, Peloton Instructor, every Thursday in conversation with inspiring athletes, from everyday enthusiasts to elite marathoners, to hear stories of perseverance, drive, and dedication. Each episode also includes an NYRR Member Moment spotlight and pro tip from 2009 New York City Marathon champ and Olympic medalist Meb Keflezighi.

Set the Pace

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