In running, it doesn't matter how fast or slow you are relative to anyone else. You set your own pace and you measure your own progress. You can't lose this race because you're not running against anyone else. You're only running against yourself, and as long as you are running, you are winning.

Motivation is a skill. It can be learned and practiced.

The true but rare runner's high is a zone that we enter when everything seems to click perfectly, when time stands still, and when we can run almost without effort.

Best wishes for a great marathon. Be sure to savor it. The first marathon is something special. Run long and healthy.

Everyone stumbles at one time or another. It's the human condition

Set a goal and a program for yourself, and everything else will follow. Guaranteed.

Winning is not about headlines and hardware [medals]. It's only about attitude. A winner is a person who goes out today and every day and attempts to be the best runner and best person he can be. Winning is about struggle and effort and optimism, and never, ever, ever giving up.