When it comes to the exciting path my life has taken into the sport of running, I have to credit Kevin and Keith Hanson. They are talent scouts, coaches, and mentors, all rolled into one. Time and again they have identified potential in runners who no one else would think twice about. For the runners in the Hansons-Brooks Distance Project, it is through Kevin and Keith that countless opportunities have been offered and goals realized. Without them, dozens of “just not quite good enough runners” wouldn’t have gotten shoe contracts, elite-level coaching, and support from some of the greatest experts in the running business. The world would know nothing of Brian Sell, Desiree Linden, or many others on a long list of athletes who represented the United States at the World Championships over the years. To be sure, a big thanks is also owed to all the runners who have come through the Hansons-Brooks Distance Project. We all shared similar running backgrounds, and hopefully the chapter dedicated to how you train will show the world just what it takes.
While the Hansons’ success with elite marathon runners has gained them national attention, their roots are with the hardworking people of Detroit. Through the Hansons’ unconventional training methods, runners of all abilities have experienced marathon success since the 1990s. Kevin and Keith have given me a wonderful opportunity to share this program with the world, and I humbly thank them for that.
Much appreciation also goes to my wife, Nicole, who was eternally patient with me while I worked on this project. And I have to give a big shout-out to my right-hand man, Corey Kubatzky. While I was writing, he took over many of the day-to-day activities of Hansons Coaching Services and made sure we never missed a beat. He has been a guiding force in making this endeavor as successful as it has been.
The fine folks at VeloPress are wonderful and I cannot thank them enough, in particular Casey Blaine, Dave Trendler, and Connie Oehring. VeloPress has given Kevin, Keith, and me a wonderful opportunity to provide all the details of the Hansons Marathon Method that magazine articles simply don’t have room to offer.
Much appreciation is also owed to Brooks Sports for all its support over the years of the sport of distance running and the Hansons Marathon Method in particular.
Finally, thanks to all the runners who take a leap of faith and try this program. Breaking tradition isn’t an easy thing to do and we understand that. While we’re providing the guidance, you’re the one who has to do all the heavy lifting (and hard running).