Marathon Handbook Podcast

A Runner Ran a Marathon Carrying... A Baby?!, Des Linden's Crazy Spring Plans, and Where Will Harry Styles Race Next?

Jan 26, 2026
A bizarre disqualification after a runner was filmed racing with a baby strapped to his chest. Des Linden’s shockingly stacked spring schedule spanning ultramarathons and major marathons. Multiple indoor world records falling, including a 60–64 masters mile. Rumors of a top marathoner changing national allegiance. Playful detective work on where Harry Styles might race next.
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ANECDOTE

Baby Carried During Marathon

  • A Hong Kong Marathon runner was disqualified after being seen carrying a baby in a front carrier around 15 km into the race.
  • Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth described the act as dangerous, baffling, and grounds for a race ban.
INSIGHT

Retirement Doesn't Mean Slowing Down

  • Des Linden is treating retirement as a chance to race widely, including Marathon des Sables, Boston, and London within weeks.
  • Jessy and Michael highlight that she remains a major presence in the sport despite 'retirement.'
INSIGHT

Athlete Nationality Switches Are Money-Driven

  • Bridget Kosgei is reportedly switching allegiance from Kenya to Turkey for substantial financial incentives and medal prospects.
  • The hosts frame this as part of a broader trend of countries offering money to East African athletes for national representation.
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