Two Hours: The Quest To Run The Impossible Marathon

"Two Hours: The Quest To Run The Impossible Marathon" is a book that explores the pursuit of breaking the two-hour marathon barrier, a feat once thought to be impossible. Written by journalist Ed Caesar, the book delves into the world of elite marathon runners and their physical, mental, and emotional journey towards achieving this goal. Through the stories of these runners, such as Kenyan Geoffrey Mutai, the book also traces the history of the marathon and the science, physiology, and psychology behind running at such a fast pace for a long distance. It highlights the appeal and allure of this grueling race and the determination and resilience of those who attempt it. The book takes readers on a journey from big-money races in the US and Europe to remote villages in Kenya, showcasing the talent, heroism, and refusal to accept defeat that are integral to the sport of running. Overall, "Two Hours" is a captivating and insightful read that goes beyond just running and delves into the human drama and spirit behind this challenging sport.

Essential reading for every runner. Mens Fitness

CompellingAs becomes clear not long after its starting gun, this book transcends the search for a two-hour marathon. The Washington Post

Two hours to cover twenty-six miles and 385 yards. It is runnings Everest, a feat once seen as impossible for the human body. But now we can glimpse the mountaintop. The sub-two hour marathon will require an exceptional combination of speed, mental strength, and endurance. The pioneer will have to endure more, live braver, plan better, and be luckier than anyone who has run before. So who will it be?

In this spellbinding book, journalist Ed Caesar takes us into the world of elite marathoners: some of the greatest runners on earth. Through the stories of these rich characters, like Kenyan Geoffrey Mutai, around whom the narrative is built, Caesar traces the history of the marathon as well as the science, physiology, and psychology involved in running so fast for so long. And he shows us why this most democratic of races retains its brutal, enthralling appealand why we are drawn to test ourselves to the limit.

Two Hours is a book about a beautiful sport few people understand. It takes us from big-money races in the United States and Europe to remote villages in Kenya. Its about talent, heroism, and refusing to accept defeat. It is a book about running that is about much more than running. It is a human drama like no other.