The Rise of One of America’s Fastest Young Marathoners | Ben Fleischer Enters the Olympic Trials Conversation

After a record-breaking collegiate career at the University of Rhode Island, Ben wasted no time making the jump to the marathon—winning the open section of the 2024 Philadelphia Marathon and earning prize money in his very first attempt at the distance.Now two marathons in, he already owns a personal best of 2:19:00, putting the 2:16 U.S. Olympic Trials standard firmly within reach. He’s currently building toward the 2026 Boston Marathon with a top-50 finish on the goal sheet.If you’ve ever questioned whether it’s worth setting big goals—or wondered what it really takes to pursue them seriously—this conversation offers a real look at someone chasing something meaningful in the sport.This episode of The Kick also showcases a full-circle moment: former high school rivals, now friends. Running really is a special sport.Hosted by Will Loggia.