After more than four years away from the prestigious TCS New York City Marathon, 28-time national champion Molly Huddle is gearing up for a triumphant comeback. The seasoned runner, known for her remarkable achievements, is looking to recapture the magic of her past successes on the iconic New York course.
A Glorious Past in New York
Molly Huddle, now 39, reflects on the energy and success she has experienced while racing in New York. Her connection with the city has been particularly strong, marked by victories in prestigious events like the NYC Half and the Abbott Dash to the Finish Line 5-K. Notably, her debut at the TCS New York City Marathon in 2016 resulted in a podium finish, boosting her confidence and establishing a special bond with the challenging course.
Triumphs and Challenges Since 2016
The years following her successful New York debut have seen both triumphs and challenges for Huddle. A stellar performance at the TCS London Marathon in April 2019, where she set a personal best of 2:26:33, was followed by a disappointing showing at the 2020 USA Olympic Team Trials in Atlanta. Forced to drop out due to leg issues, Huddleโs track dreams were dashed by the pandemic.
A Personal Journey: Motherhood and Setbacks
In late 2021, Huddle embraced motherhood as she welcomed her daughter, Josephine Valerie Benninger. The journey back to competitive racing after giving birth had its hurdles, including a femoral shaft stress fracture in March 2022, leading to the cancellation of her plans to run the Ottawa Marathon.
Determination and Focus on the Marathon
Undeterred by setbacks, Molly Huddle made a strong return to racing in September 2022, showcasing her resilience with a solid performance at the Long Gull 10-K. Now, with her sights set on the TCS New York City Marathon, she aims to prioritize the marathon in the twilight years of her illustrious career.
A Stacked Marathon Field
The upcoming marathon boasts a highly competitive field, featuring some of the worldโs best marathoners, including Peres Jepchirchir, Sharon Lokedi, Hellen Obiri, and Brigid Kosgei. Despite acknowledging the challenging competition, Huddle remains focused on delivering her best performance on race day.
Goals for the Future
Looking ahead, Molly Huddle has her eyes on the USA Olympic Team Trials Marathon in February 2024. With a conservative build-up for the New York Marathon, she aims to achieve a time under 2:29:30, a crucial step toward securing a spot in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Motherhood and Marathon: A Unique Challenge
This marathon holds special significance for Huddle as it marks her first as a mother. New York Road Runners have accommodated her unique needs, providing her with separate rooms for a good nightโs sleep before the race, considering the presence of her daughter and husband.
Anticipation Builds for Molly Huddleโs Marathon Comeback
As anticipation builds for Molly Huddleโs return to marathon racing, the running community eagerly awaits to witness her performance on the iconic streets of New York. With a blend of past success, personal milestones, and a resilient spirit, Molly Huddle aims to weave another chapter in her remarkable running legacy.
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