Vincent Mauri

If not me, then who? If not now, then when?

As our plane gently touched down at O’Hare, these were some of the questions running through my mind ahead of the 2026 Chicago Marathon.

After months of preparation, countless miles, and a whole lot of belief, there was nothing left to do but embrace the opportunity in front of me. I trusted my training, believed in myself, and above all, wanted to enjoy every second of it.

To have friends, family, coworkers, competitors, and even complete strangers cheering me on through 2 hours, 6 minutes, and 45 seconds was nothing short of extraordinary. It’s a feeling I’ll carry with me for a long time.

Whether you’ve known me my whole life or just started following along, I want to thank every single one of you. This sport is full of mountains and valleys, with a funny way of building you up and humbling you all at once. Through it all, I’ve learned that the people you surround yourself with are what make the journey so worthwhile. More recently, I’ve found that to be one of my greatest motivations to keep doing difficult things.

From the moment I arrived in Chicago, I was welcomed with open arms by race directors, sponsors, fellow competitors, and so many others. The opportunity to be part of something like this was a dream in itself, and I knew I wanted to make the most of it.

I don’t have to do this. I get to do this.

I’m proud of the work I’ve put in, the decisions I’ve made, and the unconventional path I’ve chosen. There’s a certain freedom in trusting yourself, embracing your competitive spirit, and seeing just how far it can take you.

Sunday was more than a time on the clock. It was an immense learning experience, one that taught me more than I could have ever imagined before stepping onto that starting line. I walked away with a tremendous amount of gratitude, a little more perspective, and somehow an even greater hunger for what’s ahead.

A lot to be thankful for, a lot to be proud of, and an awful lot left to chase.

Chicago, you were something else. Until next time.

- Vinny Mauri

@asicsrunning @bankofamerica @chimarathon @thefeed

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