Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Charlottesville running advocate and longtime coach Mark Lorenzoni joined Morning News to celebrate the accomplishments of area athletes who competed in the prestigious Boston Marathon. Lorenzoni emphasized the Boston Marathon’s prestige and the stringent qualifying times required for entry. “You’re around a peer group that’s pretty special, meaning you have you have to qualify to get there,” he said, highlighting the elite nature of the race. Despite the challenges, including a late starting time and sunny conditions, Charlottesville runners rose to the occasion. 

One standout was University of Virginia President Jim Ryan, who completed his 14th consecutive Boston Marathon, finishing in an impressive 3 hours and 14 minutes. A dedicated runner and community figure, Ryan not only met the demanding time standard for next year’s race but also raised $75,000 for charity, demonstrating what Lorenzoni described as using “his gift…for greater good.” 

Beyond the elite performances, Lorenzoni highlighted deeply personal triumphs. His most moving story involved Jane Jackson, who is battling cancer, and Harry Landers, a 72-year-old double bypass survivor. The pair nearly broke five hours with a run-walk strategy. “My two happiest people,” Lorenzoni said, illustrating the spirit of resilience and community that fuels his passion for coaching. “The time doesn’t tell the story. It’s the journey there, and that’s what keeps me coaching.” 

Listen to the full conversation here: