At last week's Boston Marathon, Nell Rojas went up against some of the world's best after a less-than-ideal build and did her thing. Nell ran a 2:24:51, a personal best, which was good for 14th overall and 3rd American. Two weeks before Boston, Nell finished 3rd at Cherry Blossom 10 Miler (USATF Championship). In this episode we detail the training that led to these performances as well as the race tactics and details that defined them. Nell displays her trademark candor and good humor in describing all of it!

In the second half of the episode we hear from CJ Albertson. CJ ran a gutsy race that proved to far more impactful that his 12th place overall finish (4th American).

We dive into all of it while talking at length about his well-crafted IG post detailing his experience:

"2:10:33- 12th place at the Boston Marathon

On paper, a mediocre result. With analysis, a poor result- with a 62:20 1st half split, then fading hard for a 68:13 2nd half.

But this race was special. For awhile now, it’s been difficult to enjoy running or really anything in life- and I’ve had this feeling that I’m not exactly myself- like my life and personality has been filtered in grayscale. This weekend in Boston was full of vibrant color. Running 15 miles with the world’s best marathoners, far faster than I’ve ever ran before- felt right, and I felt like me. It’s hard to describe, but the genuine joy, peace, and fun I experienced during the race hit me in a way that I could only interpret as “this is who I am”.

Yesterday, I wasn’t fit enough to race a full 26.2 with the world’s best- and many would say I should’ve ran the first half slower (including me before the race). Analytically, they are correct. But I was rewarded anyway. I was reminded of who I am, the greatness I was created for (not just in running), and the joy of running and life.

We all have greatness within us. We may not have achieved it yet, haven’t mastered the habits/discipline necessary to get there, and sometimes may not even feel it’s true- but it’s still who we are. Time to live it out."

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