The CITIUS MAG Podcast | A Running + Track and Field Show

Ben Flanagan On Making His Marathon Debut At The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon

Oct 18, 2025

Guest

Jon Green

Guest

Ben Flanagan

Ben Flanagan, the Canadian distance runner and Olympian, dives into his marathon debut at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, emphasizing his focus on winning the Canadian Championship. He shares insights on transitioning from track to marathon, including how his first half-marathon shaped his strategy. Joining him is coach Jon Green, who discusses the unique challenges of marathon training, practical race logistics, and the importance of a competitive mindset. Their candid conversation reveals the balance between training volume and racing tactics for an elite runner.

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ADVICE

Prioritize Championship Over Time

Aim to win the national title as your primary debut goal rather than chasing a time.
Use a debut marathon to practice patience and discipline for future faster races.

INSIGHT

Stop Comparing To Experienced Marathoners

Let race experience guide time expectations instead of comparing to established marathoners.
Treat the marathon's final segment as a different challenge than a 5K finish.

ADVICE

Rehearse Race Logistics

Practice logistical details like bottle placement, warmups, and fueling before race day.
Debut the marathon as a competitive race rather than a strict time trial to learn and enjoy it.

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*Note: The first few minutes of Ben's interview were cut due to audio issues. The audio quality improves throughout the interview.

Canadian distance runner and Olympian Ben Flanagan is finally making his marathon debut at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon this Sunday. Fresh off his 2024 season that included his Olympic debut in the 5000m, Flanagan opens up about the challenges of transitioning to the marathon, including an injury-shortened build in 2025. He’s focused on winning the Canadian Championship and using this race as a launching pad for his marathon future.

Jon Green, Flanagan's coach, also joins us live in Toronto to share about guiding him towards his marathon debut. The two share a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to step up to the marathon and the mindset of an elite runner in transition.

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Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠⁠⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram⁠⁠

Guest: Ben Flanagan | @ben_flanagan on Instagram

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