This week we are celebrating Gordon MacFarland, a Vermont running legend and founder of the Vermont City Marathon, who released his new book in August - Staying With It: Reflections on Running and Aging.

“Too many runners just go out and run, and then they wonder why they have to stop. A big part of writing this was to give people hope that they can keep running — and urge them to be thinking about it much earlier.” Said Gordon.

Staying With It reflects on what it means to be a healthy runner, breaking down experience and research behind injury, rehab, training, pressure, race day, and the journey of a runner. Gordon's knowledge and insight as a lifelong runner and educator make for an influential story, and his resumè backs it all up. To name a few accolades: 

  • Age division (70 – 74) winner in the 2022 USATF-New England Grand Prix Series
  •  60+ year-old PRs:  5K – 17:59;   5M – 29:24;   10K – 37:18;    15K – 58:11;  Half Marathon – 1:22:47 
  • National Strength and Conditioning Association – Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
  • American College of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) and Exercise is Medicine® (EIM) Credential
  • USA Track and Field Level 1 certified coach 
  • 2014 inductee into the Cambridge Sports Union Hall of Fame
  • B.A. in psychology. Graduate studies in food science & nutrition and clinical research.

There is no doubt that Gordon MacFarland “walks the talk”, as Geoff Strawbridge, founder of BootstrapVT and long-time Hula neighbor of Gordon's, stated.

“Gordon's new book "Staying With It" reminds me of the man himself: curious, motivated, and full of wisdom. We've been Hula neighbors, colleagues, and friends for the past 4 years. If you ever want to see what a hearty and hale runner looks like in their 70s, look no further. Each week you will see Gordon lacing up and running on the bike path, starting and ending at Hula. 30 miles a week. Rain or shine. Gordon is really showing us the path to aging well.” 
  -Geoff Strawbridge

With 50+ years of experience, Gordon proves the realities of running and aging are real and attainable every day as he takes off on the bike path. Gordon's passion for the sport and kindness in the community are an inspiration, and we are so excited to share his newest project.

To keep up, go check out the new release, Staying With It, or keep up with Gordon on his running blog - The Senior Runner. https://theseniorrunner.com