Nathan Martin, a 36-year-old high school cross-country coach and substitute teacher from Jackson, Michigan, won the 2026 Los Angeles Marathon by a mere 0.1 seconds – the closest finish in the race’s history. Martin completed the 26.2-mile course in 2 hours, 11 minutes and 17 seconds, overtaking Kenya’s Michael Kimani Kamau at the finish line.
A Test of Will
With five miles remaining, Martin decided to push beyond simply completing the race. Despite not being able to see the leader, Kenya’s Michael Kimani Kamau, he surged forward, initially aiming only to assess what he had left in his reserves. “I just wouldn’t have been happy with my performance,” Martin stated, adding that settling for second place would have left him dissatisfied.
As Martin closed the gap, he was unaware that Kamau had briefly been led off course by a pace vehicle, losing valuable time. Even when he could see Kamau ahead, Martin’s initial instinct was to accept a strong finish. However, he ultimately dismissed those thoughts and continued to push.
The final stretch proved grueling. “I really started hurting,” Martin recalled, questioning his motivation. But in the last 100 meters, a renewed determination took over. “There’s this weird feeling…it’s like this do-or-die feeling. Reality dissipates for a second, and I push.”
A Lesson for His Students
The Los Angeles Marathon organizers confirmed that despite video evidence of Kamau briefly running off course, the results would stand, as no protests were filed. Martin, however, is focused on the broader implications of his win. He intends to use his experience to inspire the runners he coaches at Jackson High School.
Martin believes that success is not solely defined by results, but by the effort expended in the pursuit of a goal. He hopes to instill in his students the understanding that fulfillment comes from giving their all, regardless of the outcome. “I hope they know that their success is not tied to results,” Martin said. “It’s about the fight that they give.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the margin of victory?
Nathan Martin won the Los Angeles Marathon by 0.1 seconds.
Where is Nathan Martin from?
Nathan Martin is from Jackson, Michigan, and works as a substitute teacher and high school cross-country coach.
Did the race organizers acknowledge an incident involving the second-place finisher?
The L.A. Marathon acknowledged that Michael Kimani Kamau briefly ran off course due to a pace vehicle, but stated that the results would not be changed as no protests were filed.
What does it mean to truly abandon everything on the course?
