"I was surprised and really proud people were chanting 'USA!' just like they were last year chanting my name. And I’m like they 'Do know I’m not gonna win this right?' But there was so much excitement. I feel like they really wanted it for me and still believe I could do something really special on that day so that was huge. When you’re completely crumbling and people are still in awe of you that’s wild, that’s again what makes Boston a unique and special place."

My guest for today’s episode is Emma Bates fresh off another top American finish at the Boston Marathon in 2:27:14. For much of the first 20 miles, Emma led the pack with the confidence of a seasoned marathoner.

You could not even tell that she was forced to heartbreakingly scratch from the 2024 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials due to a torn plantar. Before the race, she told me that she was confident in her fitness and believed she was back stronger than ever.

Race day proved all of that. With every high-five exchanged and every cheer echoing in her ears, she talks about how she drew strength and excitement from the crowd in Boston. Even though she won’t be competing in the Olympics, her spirit is undiminished and plans to continue on her marathoning journey with a renewed sense of purpose.

You can listen to the full interview with Emma Bates on the CITIUS MAG Podcast – available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your shows.