Episode 276: Boston Marathon Race Director, Dave McGillivray, Shares How We Can All Finish Strong

Episode 276: Boston Marathon Race Director, Dave McGillivray, Shares How We Can All Finish Strong

From Run Farther & Faster — The Podcast with Coaches Lisa Levin and Julie Sapper by Run Farther & Faster

March 20, 2026 · 1h 11m

About this episode

Dave McGillivray discusses the upcoming Boston Marathon and shares insights on race preparation and encouragement for runners.

We’re so thrilled to welcome back the legendary Dave McGillivray, who has served as the Boston Marathon race director since 2001. Dave breaks down the key changes to this year’s race, offering clarity into what runners can expect with six waves, rather than four, and how to adjust accordingly. Dave also offers course insight and guidance, along with how he’s training for his 54th consecutive Boston Marathon, which he will run with his three children and astronaut Sunita Williams. As taper begins and nerves set in, Dave shares thoughtful words of encouragement to help runners stay patient, confident, and ready to embrace race day. More about Dave: Dave is the founder and president of DMSE Sports, Inc., a full-service event-management organization. McGillivray has directed or consulted on more than 1,400 events throughout the world including the Boston Marathon, the Beach to Beacon 10K, the ASICS Falmouth Road Race, the Mount Washington Road Race, the Olympic Marathon trials, and the Olympic Games. Dave is also the founder of the Dave McGillivray Finish Strong Foundation, which seeks to inspire and empower youth to increase physical activity, expand literacy, and build community…

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