The Weekly Breakdown: Athletes Suspended, Olympic Tickets, Shoes & Records

Welcome to your weekly endurance briefing, courtesy of the Marathon Journal. Each Monday, we deliver essential updates and expert insights to keep you informed on the latest in running and competitive sports.

👟 Shoe of the Week: The "R.A.D. UFO"

The R.A.D. UFO is redefining the "super trainer" category through its dual-density PEBA-blend midsole, engineered to optimize energy return while minimizing muscular fatigue. By pairing a soft impact-absorbing top layer with a firmer, responsive base, the shoe utilizes aggressive rocker geometry to facilitate efficient transitions over high-mileage efforts.

• Recovery Focus: This design prioritizes physiological recovery and smooth mechanical output.

• Best Use: An essential tool for long runs and progression sessions.

• The Breakdown: 🔗 Click here for the full scientific breakdown at marathonjournal.com

🚨 Albert Korir Provisionally Suspended

The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has provisionally suspended former New York City Marathon champion Albert Korir after a positive test for CERA. This third-generation form of EPO stimulates red blood cell production for weeks, artificially enhancing aerobic capacity and endurance.

• Results Under Scrutiny: Korir’s 2025 Ottawa Marathon win—just nine seconds ahead of Canada’s Rory Linkletter—and his three-year NYC podium streak are now under heavy scrutiny.

• The Science: Dive into how modern anti-doping science is uncovering sophisticated blood-doping practices to safeguard sport.

• Full Report: 🔗 Read the full analysis at MarathonJournal.com

🏁 Detroit Sells Out in Record Time

The Detroit Free Press Marathon recently achieved its fastest sellout in history, driven by the high demand for its unique bi-national course. This surge highlights how premium race experiences and international logistics influence athlete participation and regional economic impact.

• The Waitlist: While the event reached capacity in record time, runners can still secure a spot by joining the official waitlist that opened January 14 at 12:00 p.m. EST.

• Strategy for Entry: Explore the factors driving this unprecedented demand and the strategy for late entry.

• Join the List: 🔗 Read the full article here

🎟️ The Race for $28 Tickets: LA 2028 Olympic Registration

Registration for the LA 2028 Olympic Ticket Draw officially opened January 14, marking the most critical milestone for endurance fans. To witness the historic marathon finale on July 29–30, 2028—starting at Venice Beach and finishing at the legendary Coliseum—you must register by March 18.

• Affordable Access: Tickets start at just $28.

• Local Perk: Southern California locals get an exclusive early-access window this April.

• Olympic Guide: 🔗 Read the full guide here

🧬 The Physiology of Youth Endurance: A Record-Breaking Milestone

A recent 1:23:23 half marathon performance by an 11-year-old athlete has challenged traditional physiological assumptions regarding prepubescent aerobic capacity. This achievement highlights a critical intersection between youth neuroplasticity, early cardiovascular adaptation, and the regulatory frameworks of major endurance events.

• Talent Cultivation: By examining the balance between elite-level training and age-appropriate development, we can better understand biomechanical limits.

• The Future: This milestone prompts a discussion on the future of responsible talent cultivation in long-distance running.

• Full Analysis: 🔗 Read the full analysis at MarathonJournal.com

For more deep-dives and the latest in global running news, join the community at MarathonJournal.com.