Why run a marathon? Pro-athletes and psychologists explain

ABC News went to the professionals to ask why they put their bodies through this --if not for the grand prize and title at the end.

Zackary Harris, the inaugural nonbinary division winner in the race's history, said they love the way it challenges their body and mind. They sometimes have to literally yell at themselves to keep their "feet up, head up" to make it through the race even when their body wants to stop. "I thought I'd run for an hour, and then I did another hour ... and I felt so good," Do Nascimento said. That rhythm grew, until he ran with the best in the world and broke the Americas marathon record in 2022. It made him feel powerful, he told ABC News.

Llano said that the running community plays a key role in his love for the sport, and the growing inclusivity within it is a bright spot for him to connect with other athletes -- The NYC Marathon has been deemed a "safe space" for LGBTQ runners. Firstly, the "runner's high" is no myth as the hormonal aspect of marathon running plays a big role in why people feel compelled to join in. Running is known for giving athletes a rush of endorphins, and crossing the finish line of an hourslong race can be described by some as euphoric.

First openly non-binary champion? Curious how many different categories in the NYC Marathon that declare a champion these days? Definitely the generation of everybody gets a trophy.

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