Breaking Through the Wall

You've prepared your body for 26.2 miles, now prepare your mind. The Breaking Through The Wall marathon preparation seminar covers topics including nutrition, hydration, insider race day tips, recovery, mental strategy, and more.

Meet the panelists:

Clayton Young is an American long-distance runner and ASICS athlete who earned his spot on Team USA for the 2024 Paris Olympic Marathon by finishing second at the U.S. Olympic Trials, and placed 7th at the 2023 Chicago Marathon with a personal best of 2:08:00, and won the 2019 NCAA Division 1 10K title at BYU. He is now preparing to represent Team USA at the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, describing this training phase as the best build of his career as he tackles high-volume mileage and adapts to the city’s heat.

Ariel Greenstein is passionate about representing slow runners, proving that anyone, at any pace, can achieve big goals. She started running in April 2023 at age 31, never thinking of herself as a runner—she even hated it at first. But inspired by her marathoner husband, Ariel set out to challenge herself and redefine her narrative. What started as a goal to run 30 minutes without dreading it grew into a 5K, then a half marathon, and now, after completing four half marathons, she’s training for her first full marathon at the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon with Fleet Feet Chicago. Follow her journey at @arielgreenstein_ on Instagram and TikTok.

Jackie Hoffman is the founder and CEO of Peace Runners 773, which provides health and wellness resources in underserved Chicago communities, inspired by his own mother's health struggles and transformation through exercise. A West Garfield Park native, Hoffman played football at the college and professional (AFL) levels, including a workout with the Chicago Bears, before returning to his neighborhood to launch the organization in 2020 to address health disparities he witnessed after moving back home

Karelia Cervantes, DPT is a dedicated physical therapist and clinic manager at Athletico’s Pilsen location. With over 15 years of experience as a long-distance runner, Karelia brings both professional expertise and personal passion to her work. She’s an avid weightlifter and boxer, always seeking new ways to challenge herself physically and mentally. Karelia has completed one full marathon, four half marathons, and a super sprint triathlon—and is looking forward to signing up for her next race.

Carey Pinkowski - Executive race director of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, Chicago 13.1, and the Shamrock Shuffle 8k. He ran for Villanova and competed in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters post collegiately.

The panel will be moderated by Dave Zimmer - co-owner of Fleet Feet Chicago.

Each attendee will receive a $15 voucher valid at Fleet Feet in addition to a limited-edition swag bag with items from our partners. Additionally, a portion of your ticket sale will be donated to Girls on the Run Chicago.

When you arrive at the building, please enter through the North Lobby doors. You will take the elevator up to the 3rd floor and arrive directly at the event space. Utilizing public transit is highly encouraged. If you drive, see parking options on the attatched PDF.