In this episode of DFW Running Talk's "New Blood" series, Chris sits down with Casey Novelo, the 22-year-old rising star who ran 2:24:43 to finish second overall at the 2024 Dallas Marathon.

Casey's running journey is anything but typical. Starting as one of the slowest runners on his high school cross country team—finishing second-to-last at districts with a 21+ minute 5K—he transformed himself through relentless work ethic and smart training. By his senior year, he had dropped to 16:20 for 5K and earned a walk-on spot at Texas A&M Commerce, eventually securing a scholarship.

Now working full-time while logging 100+ mile weeks, Casey has emerged as one of DFW's most promising young marathoners. He shares the full story of his Dallas Marathon experience, including the intense mile-by-mile battle with winner Steven Fahy, strategic race decisions, and that blistering 5:07 mile at mile 22 that nearly changed the outcome.

Looking ahead, Casey has his sights set on breaking 2:20 at the Jersey City Marathon in April 2026, and with 13 years until his marathon prime, he's just getting started. This conversation explores what it takes to compete at the elite level, the mental fortitude required to push through pain, and why the best marathoners in the world are still improving well into their 30s.

Whether you're chasing your own PR or just love hearing about the next generation of DFW running talent, Casey's story will inspire you to think bigger about what's possible.