Ben Flanagan closely observed the Chicago Marathon last weekend, focusing intently on details for future reference and in preparation for his debut at the Toronto Waterfront event. Reflecting on his competitors’ strong performances, particularly Alex Masai of Kenya who secured a personal best in Chicago, Flanagan expressed both intimidation and excitement. Despite initially aiming for a 2:08 or 2:09 time in his first marathon, his training was disrupted by a hip injury, shifting his priorities for the upcoming race.
As Flanagan gears up for the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, his coach Jon Green emphasizes the importance of enjoying the marathon experience and competing for the Canadian championship. Flanagan, a seasoned athlete with notable achievements in track events, views this marathon as a learning opportunity and a chance for personal growth.
With past Canadian champions like Justin Kent, Thomas Broatch, and Trevor Hofbauer setting the bar high, Flanagan faces stiff competition in his quest for the national title. Despite setbacks in his training, Flanagan remains determined to give his best effort on race day and aims to learn from the challenges he encounters.
As the marathon approaches, Flanagan acknowledges the support of his family and friends who will be cheering him on during the event. With a focus on pacing, fueling, and mental toughness, Flanagan is prepared to push himself to his limits and strive for a successful performance.
In the absence of some key competitors, such as Broatch and John Gay, other Canadian athletes like Andrew Alexander and Phil Parrot-Migas are poised to challenge Flanagan for the national title. The improving Canadian marathon scene motivates Flanagan to aim higher and strive for excellence in his future endeavors.
Looking ahead, Flanagan envisions competing at the highest level in future Olympic games, setting ambitious goals for himself and aspiring to be among the elite athletes in his sport. As he prepares for the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Flanagan remains focused on his journey towards achieving his long-term aspirations in the world of marathon running.
