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#734 - Martin Dugard - The Long Run: Steve Prefontaine, Frank Shorter, Joan Benoit, Grete Waitz, and the Decade That Made the Marathon Cool

Running

#734 - Martin Dugard - The Long Run: Steve Prefontaine, Frank Shorter, Joan Benoit, Grete Waitz, and the Decade That Made the Marathon Cool

The Rambling Runner Podcast›
Apr 14, 202644:01

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Episode Notes

In his newest book, The Long Run: Steve Prefontaine, Frank Shorter, Joan Benoit, Grete Waitz, and the Decade That Made the Marathon Cool, U.S. Track & Field Foundation board member, life-long runner, high school track coach, and bestselling author Martin Dugard takes us through the historical moments that sparked the running boom across America, including Frank Shorter’s Olympic marathon win in 1972, Steve Prefontaine’s career that ended too soon—and not to mention Greta Waitz and Joan Benoit, both with their own historic marathon wins that inspired women all over. 

Along the way, Dugard shares the history of the sport—from the myth that originated the modern marathon, to how it became 26.2 miles (and how the British Royal family had a hand in it), how the sport saved NYC from bankruptcy, and more!

Martin's perspective and research into the race we love is awe inspiring and worth a read (or listen if you're an Audible fan like me).

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"#734 - Martin Dugard - The Long Run: Steve Prefontaine, Frank Shorter, Joan Benoit, Grete Waitz, and the Decade That Made the Marathon Cool" is an episode of The Rambling Runner Podcast. Runtime 44 min. Published April 14, 2026. Hit play above to stream it here, or open the free Spot Sports app for background play and offline downloads.

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Quick FAQ

When was this episode published?
April 14, 2026.
How long is this episode?
44 min.
What podcast is this from?
The Rambling Runner Podcast. Browse the full back catalog on the show page.
What does this episode cover?
The Rambling Runner Podcast covers running. This episode runs on the show's regular cadence.

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  • #734 - Martin Dugard - The Long Run: Steve Prefontaine, Frank Shorter, Joan Benoit, Grete Waitz, and the Decade That Made the Marathon Cool
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