At this year’s TCS New York City Marathon, those who crossed the line late into the night were celebrated as much as those who were first, including the final runner Juan Pablo Dos Santos who finished at 12:30am.
Juan from Venezuela took on the marathon as a double amputee, having lost both legs at the age of 20. Refusing to let that define or limit him, he embodied the true spirit of resilience and determination to cross the line, cheered on by Dr. Kristen Holmes – performance expert, elite coach, and most recently, host of the new podcast THE LINE.
Dr. Kristen said: “Watching Juan cross the finish line was a powerful reminder that the marathon isn’t just about who gets there first – it’s about everyone who finds the strength to keep going. That’s what The Line is all about: that moment when you decide to give everything you have, even when no one’s watching.”
The finish line was transformed into a moment of pure celebration: cheering crowds and emotional embraces as Juan ran through his very own victory tape to applause from family and fellow supporters. Spectators waved signs of encouragement as the final runner crossed, joined by the usual colourful NYC Marathon supporters – a fitting celebration of endurance, persistence, and spirit.
The moment perfectly encapsulated the message behind THE LINE – the point between who you are now and who you want to be. Each week on the podcast, Dr. Holmes sits down with world-class athletes, coaches, and thinkers to explore what it takes to step over that line – physically, mentally, and emotionally – and how anyone can do the same.
