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Marathon Man: My Life, My Father's Stroke and Running 35 Marathons in 35 Days
Readers' Favorite Book Award Winner; BIBA Book Award Winner; IPPY Book Award Winner; ABF Best Book Award WinnerIrish Runner Magazine - 'A must-read.'Dean Karnazes, New York Times best-selling author and ultra-runner - 'An intimate and uplifting story of grit, tenacity and healing and one that is sure to stir the soul.'MARATHON MAN is an uplifting story of an extraordinary achievement – all the more inspiring given that the author was an inexperienced long-distance runner and only 20 when embarking on his mission to run 35 marathons in 35 consecutive days. Alan Corcoran’s response to the shock of his dad’s stroke was to get active, create positive from negative and raise money for charity. Alan faced many obstacles in life and along the gruelling 1,500-kilometre road around Ireland’s coast. He candidly submerges the reader into his world with a charming, light Irish touch, showing how you can achieve your objectives through sheer perseverance.The IAN Book of the Year Award Finalist; Next Generation Indie Book Award Finalist; ABF International Book Award Finalist
- GenresAdventure
287 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2021
About the author
Alan Corcoran
2 books4 followersAlan Corcoran is an Irish endurance adventure athlete by night and career town planning professional by day. Competing as an Irish international track and field athlete as a juvenile, he switched to ultra-endurance at the age of 20, when his dad suffered a stroke. Alan has since fundraised €45,000 for stroke and cancer charities through his resilience challenges. Alan became the first person to run a lap of Ireland - 35 marathons in 35 consecutive days - and the first person to swim the length of Ireland - a 500-kilometre sea swim - on his second attempt.
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October 27, 2023Running 35 miles in 35 days is a hugely admirable feat, of that there is no doubt. However, the strained relationship between the author and the Irish Heart Foundation, the charity the author had decided to raise money for, makes for uncomfortable reading.
The author is clearly very angry about the lack of assistance offered by the charity in executing his marathon project and the angry tone took away from the book and rendered it less an uplifting read unfortunately and more of an embittered rant.
The author is clearly very angry about the lack of assistance offered by the charity in executing his marathon project and the angry tone took away from the book and rendered it less an uplifting read unfortunately and more of an embittered rant.
September 6, 2022
Whilst still a collage student Alan’s dad suffered a stroke, this was the final push he needed to do something big.
So at the age of 20, the recently retired 400m Huddler decided to take on a huge challenge for charity.. Run around Ireland.. 35 Marathons in 35 days despite never running a half marathon let alone a full marathon before.
Overcoming many different obstacles, especially with the charity failing to deliver on the logistics side, he achieved his goal. The sheer determination of him and the small team around him ensured there was no way this would fail.
At times throughout the run, it’s clear he feels disappointed he hasn’t raised as much money as he originally hoped. I really hope he is at peace with that now and is proud of all he did and what money he did raise.
This is an inspiring book and an incredible achievement 👏
So at the age of 20, the recently retired 400m Huddler decided to take on a huge challenge for charity.. Run around Ireland.. 35 Marathons in 35 days despite never running a half marathon let alone a full marathon before.
Overcoming many different obstacles, especially with the charity failing to deliver on the logistics side, he achieved his goal. The sheer determination of him and the small team around him ensured there was no way this would fail.
At times throughout the run, it’s clear he feels disappointed he hasn’t raised as much money as he originally hoped. I really hope he is at peace with that now and is proud of all he did and what money he did raise.
This is an inspiring book and an incredible achievement 👏
December 28, 2022
Absolute five stars through and through. Reading this book felt like catching up with an old friend while simultaneously getting dragged on a whirlwind adventure. Now, excuse me while I lace up my runners. Inspirational!
September 29, 2021
Alan will inspire runners & non-runners alike as he shares his emotional and personal story with typical Irish wit and humour.
September 29, 2021
A well-written and well put together book that brings you on a gripping and enjoyable journey. Alan’s memoir offers an open account of his life experiences that culminates in him trying to run a lap of Ireland (thirty-five marathons in thirty-five consecutive days) for charity.
Alan touches on some hard-hitting topics (acne struggles, premature death, stroke) but balances them with humour and a nice pace from one tale to the next. He details his dad’s stroke journey, and his own struggles with going from a beginner endurance athlete to an ultra-marathon runner over a few months. Alan lets us behind the scenes, showing all the challenges of the endurance project, physically, mentally and logistically.
I felt inspired reading of an ordinary twenty-year-old student dreaming big and demonstrating almost any extraordinary feat is possible with a wholehearted approach. I’m not a runner myself and think this book is for anyone looking for inspiration and motivation or who simply enjoys a great story, memoirs, travel adventures or interesting sporting accounts – five stars.
Alan touches on some hard-hitting topics (acne struggles, premature death, stroke) but balances them with humour and a nice pace from one tale to the next. He details his dad’s stroke journey, and his own struggles with going from a beginner endurance athlete to an ultra-marathon runner over a few months. Alan lets us behind the scenes, showing all the challenges of the endurance project, physically, mentally and logistically.
I felt inspired reading of an ordinary twenty-year-old student dreaming big and demonstrating almost any extraordinary feat is possible with a wholehearted approach. I’m not a runner myself and think this book is for anyone looking for inspiration and motivation or who simply enjoys a great story, memoirs, travel adventures or interesting sporting accounts – five stars.
February 19, 2022
To be clear, I don't like running.
Nevertheless, Alan takes you on a journey around the Irish countryside and you feel like a participant alongside him, not just someone in the support car. This is an incredible story of the power of positivity and mental strength. It provides anyone who wants to be challenged and achieve greatness with the training plan of the long journey required to mentally prepare. Running 35 marathons in 35 days didn't happen overnight, even if the physical training seemed spur of the moment to start with; there are the years of build-up adding the skills sets required to get to the finish line. The process Alan outlines could apply to any adventure - even for non-runners like myself!
Inspiration aside, I haven't laughed or cried so much while reading in quite a while. True credit for a first time author.
Nevertheless, Alan takes you on a journey around the Irish countryside and you feel like a participant alongside him, not just someone in the support car. This is an incredible story of the power of positivity and mental strength. It provides anyone who wants to be challenged and achieve greatness with the training plan of the long journey required to mentally prepare. Running 35 marathons in 35 days didn't happen overnight, even if the physical training seemed spur of the moment to start with; there are the years of build-up adding the skills sets required to get to the finish line. The process Alan outlines could apply to any adventure - even for non-runners like myself!
Inspiration aside, I haven't laughed or cried so much while reading in quite a while. True credit for a first time author.
October 9, 2021
Alan Corcoran was a student away at college when he found out his father, Milo, had experienced a stroke. Corcoran decided to create positive from negative, and raise money for the Irish Heart Foundation. Nothing unusual about a family member raising money for a cause after a health scare, but what was remarkable is that Corcoran decided to run 35 marathons in 35 days, taking him right around Ireland. Also remarkable was that Corcoran was not an experienced long distance runner. He was a sprinter in his youth and long runs were somewhat alien to him.
The book shows how Corcoran prepared for the initiative, both in terms of his marathon training, and the logistics. He threw himself into an aggressive training regime (one which had me as a casual runner wincing; it was way beyond anything I have ever tried) in order to build up kms quickly. With the aid of the charity involved, he tried to setup a logistics operation and fundraising initiative, both of which seemed to be frustrated at every turn.
Corcoran then takes us day by day through each of the 35 marathons. It’s a lesson in pure determination, single-mindednesses and physical and mental endurance. He experienced all manner of injuries, sorenesses and pain, but just kept going. It seemed like at no point did he ever consider giving up. It’s clear that Corcoran has incredible mental strength, and his endeavours are an inspiration. We get a warts-and-all description of each day’s running, right up to his final day running, the Waterford Viking Marathon.
An entertaining and uplifting read, especially if you’re in need of motivation to accomplish a goal.
The book shows how Corcoran prepared for the initiative, both in terms of his marathon training, and the logistics. He threw himself into an aggressive training regime (one which had me as a casual runner wincing; it was way beyond anything I have ever tried) in order to build up kms quickly. With the aid of the charity involved, he tried to setup a logistics operation and fundraising initiative, both of which seemed to be frustrated at every turn.
Corcoran then takes us day by day through each of the 35 marathons. It’s a lesson in pure determination, single-mindednesses and physical and mental endurance. He experienced all manner of injuries, sorenesses and pain, but just kept going. It seemed like at no point did he ever consider giving up. It’s clear that Corcoran has incredible mental strength, and his endeavours are an inspiration. We get a warts-and-all description of each day’s running, right up to his final day running, the Waterford Viking Marathon.
An entertaining and uplifting read, especially if you’re in need of motivation to accomplish a goal.
September 29, 2021
Loved this book from start to finish! As an avid runner it really peaked my interest.
Alans story and perseverance through numerous struggles was really inspiring and gave a fascinating into his mindset and what it took to achieve what he did. Highly reccomend to anyone looking to read an inspirational story that showed the real meaning of resolve.
Alans story and perseverance through numerous struggles was really inspiring and gave a fascinating into his mindset and what it took to achieve what he did. Highly reccomend to anyone looking to read an inspirational story that showed the real meaning of resolve.
September 29, 2021
Fantastic read. Great insight in to Alan's ability to power on through....the care and dedication to his family and friends his efforts, determination and sacrifices are not achievements for the faint hearted.... All the while encountering sets backs throughout.... A great inspirational read especially for anyone seeking some motivation.
February 18, 2022
A must read for anyone with an interest in running or just sports in general. Top class from start to finish.
July 5, 2024
A great story about a guy who went from being a student with a sprinting background to ultra-running in 8 months, all for a good cause and family.
October 1, 2021
Marathon Man by Alan Corcoran is an inspirational tale of Alan's life journey culminating in his success in running 35 marathon's in 35 days across the island of Ireland.
With warming humour that comes from the honesty of life, its hard to not have a smile on your face as you read this book and go along with Alan in his journey.
As Alan recounts his own life and the ups and downs that came his way, his experiences become a font of wisdom for the listener. The importance of family, the positive influence we can have on others, the values of small steps, allowing our negative experiences to shape us positively, and sometimes just showing up are but a few of the insights we gain from listening to his story.
Alan's story is full of challenges, setbacks, and at times, heartbreak, but whatever comes his way, Alan gets back up and overcomes, because as we learn, its not about the time, its about finishing.
I would highly recommend this book either in audio or book format, and is a must read for anyone looking to move forward and run the marathon that is life.
With warming humour that comes from the honesty of life, its hard to not have a smile on your face as you read this book and go along with Alan in his journey.
As Alan recounts his own life and the ups and downs that came his way, his experiences become a font of wisdom for the listener. The importance of family, the positive influence we can have on others, the values of small steps, allowing our negative experiences to shape us positively, and sometimes just showing up are but a few of the insights we gain from listening to his story.
Alan's story is full of challenges, setbacks, and at times, heartbreak, but whatever comes his way, Alan gets back up and overcomes, because as we learn, its not about the time, its about finishing.
I would highly recommend this book either in audio or book format, and is a must read for anyone looking to move forward and run the marathon that is life.
October 10, 2021
Amazing, authentic, inspiring story of grit, determination, perseverance, empathy and compassion .. straight from the heart and soul of the man.
February 10, 2022
Inspirational, amusing and witty story of a man who discovered the power within self, driven by love and compassion. After all the odyssey and when you just start to think “I think this guy is insane”, boom! 💥 Adventures are not over yet. A must for any runner reader or aspiring marathoner.
February 7, 2022
Such an inspiring story. Never give upon your journey. I enjoyed reading it through and through.
October 1, 2021
A fantastic read for what was an epic achievement - one mans determination leading to an inspirational book for others to follow!
March 19, 2022
Marathon Man by Alan Corcoran is an inspiring story about a long-distance runner who prepares to conquer a series of goals, including consecutive marathons within a month, while experiencing unexpected changes in his personal life. When Alan’s father has a stroke, this propels him to take greater control in a challenging situation and focus on the positive, creative options available to support his father. Alan’s ability to adapt and take charge of a difficult situation makes this story a fantastically uplifting read.
As Alan plans to accomplish an incredible feat by running 35 marathons in a row, every day for 35 days, he becomes determined to apply his ambition to raise funds for cancer and stroke charities. He continues to support his father through this process while focusing on his goal to become the first person in Ireland to achieve consecutive marathons. While Alan remains focused on his physical goal, he quickly works to combine his running challenges with fundraising, achieving multiple goals at once.
The author narrates a lively and motivational tale about taking the reigns of in an emergency and shows how Alan made the most of his father’s recovery with quick-thinking, action and creativity. Alan’s sense of humor and generous nature are endearing and authentic and that heartfelt emotion comes off the page. He offers a humble but uplifting story that will keep readers eagerly turning pages to see what happens next because, as we learn more and more about Alan, we know that whatever comes next he’ll tackle it with surprising vigor. The author demonstrates an impressive resilience for a twenty-year-old, with a determined effort to raise awareness about heart and stroke health.
Alan Corcoran’s Marathon Man is an inspirational memoir that’s easy to read and will leave you feeling like anything is possible. This book offers a glimpse into an incredible personal journey. The author is able to to shift a tragic experience into a light-hearted story about determination and resilience. Marathon Man is a well-written account of one man’s ability to make the most out of a challenging experience with excellent results.
As Alan plans to accomplish an incredible feat by running 35 marathons in a row, every day for 35 days, he becomes determined to apply his ambition to raise funds for cancer and stroke charities. He continues to support his father through this process while focusing on his goal to become the first person in Ireland to achieve consecutive marathons. While Alan remains focused on his physical goal, he quickly works to combine his running challenges with fundraising, achieving multiple goals at once.
The author narrates a lively and motivational tale about taking the reigns of in an emergency and shows how Alan made the most of his father’s recovery with quick-thinking, action and creativity. Alan’s sense of humor and generous nature are endearing and authentic and that heartfelt emotion comes off the page. He offers a humble but uplifting story that will keep readers eagerly turning pages to see what happens next because, as we learn more and more about Alan, we know that whatever comes next he’ll tackle it with surprising vigor. The author demonstrates an impressive resilience for a twenty-year-old, with a determined effort to raise awareness about heart and stroke health.
Alan Corcoran’s Marathon Man is an inspirational memoir that’s easy to read and will leave you feeling like anything is possible. This book offers a glimpse into an incredible personal journey. The author is able to to shift a tragic experience into a light-hearted story about determination and resilience. Marathon Man is a well-written account of one man’s ability to make the most out of a challenging experience with excellent results.
April 20, 2022
I enjoyed this story a lot. It provided a lot of information/insight on ultra-distance running and in the beauty of Ireland. It was also a great story of family and friendship. This may have inspired me to take on a new running challenge.
August 29, 2021
An absolutely fascinating read. The mental determination to perform such a feat is one thing, but to do it after countless setbacks and injuries is truly remarkable.
A few words in, and this books unveils that its true meaning is about determination, pushing yourself to the limit and never giving in. Page by page, the reader becomes part of the challenge, sharing in Alan's struggles as he goes into uncharted territory for over a month. The book has real heart, as the love of friends and family is strong throughout. A crazy task just seems that more achievable when your family and friends are behind you every step of the way, and should serve as a great lesson for people who want to push themselves. Add in a touch of wicked Irish humour, and suddenly the pages turn themselves...
If you want to read something that will give you that bit of motivation to start a new project or finally finish that job, then I couldn't recommend this book more. A real feel good story, top marks!
A few words in, and this books unveils that its true meaning is about determination, pushing yourself to the limit and never giving in. Page by page, the reader becomes part of the challenge, sharing in Alan's struggles as he goes into uncharted territory for over a month. The book has real heart, as the love of friends and family is strong throughout. A crazy task just seems that more achievable when your family and friends are behind you every step of the way, and should serve as a great lesson for people who want to push themselves. Add in a touch of wicked Irish humour, and suddenly the pages turn themselves...
If you want to read something that will give you that bit of motivation to start a new project or finally finish that job, then I couldn't recommend this book more. A real feel good story, top marks!
March 29, 2022
Great read from a committed, big-hearted sportsman.
July 4, 2022
Excellent book from an amazing human! Definitely recommend to anyone looking to add more meaning to their lives after adversity.
January 10, 2022
Marathon Man is a memoir of a man running through grief and physical pain through 35 marathons in 35 days along Ireland’s coast.
I’m impressed that a 20-year-old who was not an experienced long-distance runner was so determined to complete 35 marathons. Alan Corcoran details his workout plan and how he prepared for his marathons as well as struggles he faced along the way.
Marathon Man is a memoir that athletes and non-athletes will greatly enjoy. It’s an inspirational look at persevering through grief to reach a goal.
I’m impressed that a 20-year-old who was not an experienced long-distance runner was so determined to complete 35 marathons. Alan Corcoran details his workout plan and how he prepared for his marathons as well as struggles he faced along the way.
Marathon Man is a memoir that athletes and non-athletes will greatly enjoy. It’s an inspirational look at persevering through grief to reach a goal.
March 12, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, the author Alan Corcoran writes a personal and emotional journey with humility and passion. From his upbringing, to his love of athletics and sport, to his love for his father and family, you're given a thorough understanding of who the author is and where he comes from. It is emotionally touching reading the words of a young man desperate to not simply stand idly by while his father suffered a life-threatening stroke. The painstaking training process in taking on this monumental running challenge was immense and I felt as if I was there every step of the way with the author as he completed each days' marathon for 35 in a row. I can relate to Alan's struggle in dealing with the hardships and bureaucracy of raising money for charity foundations and the never quit attitude to get the job done when the odds are rarely in your favour. Highly recommend this to everyone!
January 6, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this inspirational story. It's so well written and such a well told story that you get immersed into Alan's journey from dreaming up the challenge and not being able to shake the idea through to the training and the early starts for such long runs right through to the 35 marathons and the end point of the last, organised event. I genuinely found it hard to put this book down each night! A marathon is tough but 35 in 35 days is incrediable and I loved learning all about the process and what Alan was thinking as he completed them. Ultimately, it's a book about a physical challenge but it's also about supporting loved ones, helping a charity and overcoming the tough things that life throws at you with a bit of grit and determination! Loved it!
November 22, 2021
I knew I was in for an inspirational story but, I did not expect my heart to be filled with so much hope and warmth. I appreciated how open and detailed that Alan Corcoran was throughout the story especially in chapter two when he was mentioning events that happened during his adolescent years. Being a person that went through difficult times from a devastating loss, the best way to move on is to focus on yourself and do something that will bring a positive impact to your life. It was heart warming to see the determination and motivation Alan had for these marathons and how he was no longer negatively impacted from the loss of his father. What made me even happier was the fact Alan got his motivation by reading Dean Karnazes book even though he was not a bookstore but, you never know the power reading can have on an individual and it was just brilliant to see Alan turned that into a life changing experience. This book is a perfect read when you feel that times are tough.
An inspiring story that will get everyone off their couches. That is why this book gets 5 stars.
An inspiring story that will get everyone off their couches. That is why this book gets 5 stars.
November 2, 2021
Marathon Man was a highly enjoyable read. The author's voice shines through, and the experience was almost like sitting down in the pub and hearing him share his experiences first hand over a pint (or two). I appreciated the stories from the author's childhood, and seeing how his life led him to the decision to go through an amazing physical and mental adventure. The diary of his 35 marathons was fantastic, and I have never wanted to visit Ireland more than after reading this book. (although I prefer to visit in a more conventional fashion!). The author doesn't shy away from detailing the challenges of the whole process--from disappointments in fund raising, to the mental and physical toll the training and journey took on him. He shares what he learned along the way, but doesn't spend too much time trying to impart life lessons on the reader. He's just your mate, Alan, telling you an inspiring story about a crazy thing he decided to do.
December 17, 2021
Finished this in a couple days! As an amateur athlete and an Irish native I found it both inspiring and emotional to read! During the opening chapters I thought what is this maniac up to but out the course of the book I saw with careful planning this was something Alan had to do, almost like his life's mission! I cannot wait to read the next book about his swim! I'd recommend anyone who has any crazy ventures in mind have a read of this, it tells a tale that once you set your mind and you're determined to get something done, you will see results, nevermind the few hiccups along the way, they're there to challenge you and make you stronger!
February 10, 2022
I am reading this book at the moment.Its an incredible and inspiring story .
From dealing with all the pitfalls as an athlete,to dealing with some difficult moments in life.His dads stroke being one of those.Making the "impossdible"-"Possible,and dreams a reality.
As a runner myself i hope to complete my first marathon this year.This story is an absolute inspiration to anyone who reads.
A running legend,and one of my running heroes.
This guy deserves a statue or something.....maybe on the quay in waterford.😁😉
Unbelieveable
From dealing with all the pitfalls as an athlete,to dealing with some difficult moments in life.His dads stroke being one of those.Making the "impossdible"-"Possible,and dreams a reality.
As a runner myself i hope to complete my first marathon this year.This story is an absolute inspiration to anyone who reads.
A running legend,and one of my running heroes.
This guy deserves a statue or something.....maybe on the quay in waterford.😁😉
Unbelieveable
November 1, 2021
Offering a look at the most extraordinary achievements human potential can offer, also a beloved man who finds healing in the love of sport and difficulty. With determination fuelled by his beloved father. This book will encourage any person to get out and adventure life, and explore the world! Offering ways to overcome adverse conditions at the darkest times. It is just excellent book! a big must read!
May 1, 2022
A truly inspiring story and an excellently written book! I was hooked from the get-go wanting to learn more about Alan's journey and the heart-warming motivation that encouraged him to complete such an amazing event. Alan inspired me do my first half marathon! Would recommend to anyone interested in sport / running !
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews