If you’re chasing a half marathon PR or interested in running the New York Road Runners 4-of-6 program to qualify for the United Airlines NYC Half, this episode is for you! In this solo episode, host Haven breaks down her complete race-day experience at the 2026 Staten Island Half Marathon—where she locked in her third half marathon personal best of the year!

From early morning logistics and ferry timing to a mile-by-mile course breakdown (including those surprise Mile 10 hills and Fort Wadsworth nostalgia), Haven shares her exact pacing strategy, gear choices, and fueling schedule so you can execute your next 13.1 with confidence.

In this episode, we cover:

• Race Day Logistics: Getting to the start line and pre-race timing
• Course Breakdown: Pacing for rolling hills, the Mile 10 incline, rain strategy, and the Fort Wadsworth loop
• Pacing & PR Strategy: Holding target marathon pace (~7:26/mi) on a challenging course
• Fueling on the Run: Exact breakdown of pre-run fuel, gel timing on the run, and post-run replenishment
• Gear & Attire Review: Haven’s race day kit
• NYRR 4-of-6 Program: Haven’s opinion on the Staten Island Half. Is it worth running compared to the Brooklyn Half Marathon and the United Airlines NYC Half?

🏃‍♀️ Resources & Links:

• Newsletter: Subscribe for Recipes & Health Tips
• Support the Show: Pledge your support for less than a cup of coffee!
• Instagram: @healthbyhaven
• Website: healthbyhaven.com

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Back by popular demand, friend and fellow distance runner, Megan Cottage, returns to the Health by Haven Podcast to share her journey to completing all six Abbott World Marathon Majors! Fresh off finishing the 2026 Berlin Marathon, Megan recaps her 2026 Berlin Marathon experience where she officially earned her coveted Six Star Medal!

From racing in Chicago, NYC, Boston, London, and Tokyo to crossing the finish line at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Megan reflects on her multi-year World Marathon Majors journey. Whether you're chasing your own Six Star goal, planning a major destination marathon, or seeking general motivation to tackle ambitious goals, this episode is packed with inspiration and race-day insights.

In this episode, we cover:

• Megan’s Berlin Marathon 2026 Recap: The start line, course vibes, crowds, her “pit crew”, and her mile-by-mile race recap
• Earning the 6th Star: What it feels like to complete the Abbott World Marathon Majors and earn the coolest medal in the world
• World Majors Comparison: From the expo to race day – key differences between Berlin, Tokyo, London, Boston, Chicago, and NYC
• Six Star Logistics: Tips for registering, planning, and executing international major marathons
• Mindset & Goal Setting: Staying committed to long-term athletic and personal milestones

Connect with Megan:

• Catch Megan's previous episodes:
  • #24 NYC/Boston/Chicago
  • #53 London
  • #97 Tokyo
• Keep up with Megan’s races on Instagram: @meg.runs.disney

Resources & Links:

• Newsletter: Subscribe for Recipes & Health Tips
• Support the Show: Pledge your support for less than a cup of coffee!
• Instagram: @healthbyhaven
• Website: healthbyhaven.com

Enjoying the podcast?

Hit Follow or Subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss an episode! Leave a 5-star rating and review to help more runners find the show.

Special thanks to our sponsor, Avodah Massage Therapy!

Support the show

Looking to crush your next race goal or navigate running through different life stages? In this episode, host Haven sits down with former NCAA Division I runner, 2:51 marathoner, run coach, and popular content creator Courtney Kitchen.

Courtney shares her evolution from collegiate cross country to running the Boston Marathon, to adapting her fitness while running and strength training through her first pregnancy.

In this episode, we cover:

• Collegiate to Marathoner: Courtney’s journey from D1 cross country to running a 2:51 marathon
• Boston Qualifying: Proven training strategies to qualify for and race the Boston Marathon
• Mental Toughness: How to overcome “the wall” in late-stage marathon miles
• Coach-Approved Speed Work & Strength: Key workouts to build endurance and prevent injury
• Running & Strength Training Through Pregnancy: Courtney’s perspective changes on training and what her body is capable of
• Beginner Runner Roadmap: Essential tips to stay motivated and start running with confidence

📌 Connect with Courtney:

• Instagram: @court.marathon.runner

🏃‍♀️ Resources & Links:

• Newsletter: Subscribe for Recipes & Health Tips
• Support the Show: Pledge your support for less than a cup of coffee!
• Instagram: @healthbyhaven
• Website: healthbyhaven.com

📌 Enjoying the podcast?

Hit Follow or Subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss an episode! Leave a 5-star rating and review to help more runners find the show.

Support the show