Conner Mantz Breaks Down His Competition At The 2025 Boston Marathon + His Chances Of Winning It All

“I think I'm a guy who can win these races on the right day. I just need to prove that. I think the way to prove that, at least to myself, is to finish in the top three… I'd rather focus on getting on the podium in some of these races." Welcome back Conner Mantz to the CITIUS MAG Podcast for his 9th career appearance on the show. He's back ahead of his return to the 2025 Boston Marathon and he's bringing some serious momentum with him. In the past year alone, Mantz has shattered the American half marathon record in Houston, backed it up with another 57:15 performance at the NYC Half, which is a non-record eligible course, yet quite the performance. He's continued his streak of finishing as the top American in every major marathon since the fall of 2023. We talk about what's different this time around in Boston after his 11th place finish there in 2023, what he's learned from racing shoulder-to-shoulder with the world's best, and what he takes from another upcoming race with Clayton Young. We also go through some of the top contenders in the field and Conner expresses his thoughts on who's got a shot of winning and what he's taken away from each of those competitors. We explore where his mindset is heading into Patriots Day 2025 – a day that could crown the next American to break through on Boston's legendary course. It's been more than a decade since we've had an American man win – and Conner Mantz has a shot. Hosts: Chris Chavez | ⁠ @chris_j_chavez on Instagram Guest: Conner Mantz | @connermantz on Instagram SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS OLIPOP: Big name sodas are rolling out bold new flavors in 2025, but the real buzz is happening in the prebiotic pop aisle. If you haven't already jumped on the Olipop train yet, now's the time. BuzzFeed just came out with an article that recently named Olipop the best overall soda for flavor — and with a lineup that includes classic root beer, vintage cola and cherry vanilla, it's easy to see why. Try Olipop today and save 25% on your order using code CITIUS25 at checkout at DrinkOlipop.com. SWIFTWICK: The go-to sock brand for endurance athletes who care about performance and longevity. Check out the Flite XT Mid-Crew — my personal favorite. Great grip, comfy fit, stylish look. For a limited time, CITIUS MAG listeners get 15% off your first order with the code CITIUSMAG at checkout. VELOUS: Recover smarter with VELOUS’ new active adjustable slide! VELOUS just launched the NEW Active Adjustable Slide, designed to take your recovery to the next level. With a perfectly contoured midsole, these slides maximize cushioning and support to help ease tired feet and legs. Run. Recover. Repeat with VELOUS. Check out the entire collection and enjoy 20% off your purchase by entering code CITIUSMAG20 at checkout! LITTLE SESAME: Run a 5K, get free hummus! Move for the planet with the Little Sesame Earth Day 5K. Run, walk, or bike 3.1 miles anytime in April to celebrate Earth Month—and score a free container of our creamy, dreamy hummus. Pledge to move, get outside, and snack sustainably. Sign up now. It’s that easy!