In Los Angeles, a remarkable group of marathoners, known as the Legacy Runners, defy aging and adversity as they continue to pursue their marathon goals. Despite facing various challenges, including illnesses and injuries, this dedicated group has maintained their commitment to completing the Los Angeles Marathon. A few of these seasoned marathoners, the oldest being 87, now utilize wheelchairs to participate in the race.
On Sunday, they proudly celebrated their 40th LA Marathon, a journey that began with the inaugural event in 1986, showcasing their unwavering spirit year after year. “We’re legacy runners, we just don’t know when to quit,” declared 77-year-old Lou Briones. Briones has even tackled the formidable race on crutches following surgery and now walks the marathon after receiving knee replacements. “You gotta do it,” he stated determinedly. “No matter what the conditions are, you gotta be there at the starting line on race day.”
Recalling the first marathon, Briones and fellow runners stood ready at the starting line under unique historical circumstances—President Reagan had recently been reelected, and the nation was reeling from the explosion of the Space Shuttle Challenger. Amidst this backstory, Los Angeles was inspired by its success in hosting the 1984 Summer Olympics to establish its marathon, much like the origins of the Boston Marathon after the 1896 Summer Olympics. Los Angeles now looks forward to again hosting the Olympics in 2028.
Event organizers began formally recognizing those who completed every race with a plaque five years after the marathon’s inception, holding celebratory events every five years thereafter. Around the 15th year, Briones initiated efforts to officially recognize the Legacy Runners, rallying participants to connect via email for greater unity.
For many, like 80-year-old May DuBois, the inspiration came from witnessing Joan Benoit’s victory in the 1984 Olympic women’s marathon. When DuBois ran her first marathon two years later, it was a moment akin to the Olympics, filled with enthusiastic support from the crowd. Today, she maintains a routine of running 3 to 5 miles daily and relishes hosting a celebratory brunch after each marathon, thanks to her consistent health.
For 76-year-old Cliff Housego, running became a priority after losing his father to a heart attack. Despite personal setbacks, the marathon remains a constant in his life. Sharon Kerson, 83, resumed running after a challenging year of sickness and vertigo, having participated in over 600 marathons in her life. Her main ambition for each race is simply to cross the finish line.
Rick Bingham, at 87, races in a wheelchair after an injury a decade ago. With a rigorous training regimen, he aspires to complete his 50th LA Marathon. His determination has motivated Luis Gallardo, 71, to continue racing. Despite contemplating retirement after his 38th marathon due to knee issues, Gallardo reconsidered when Bingham offered him a racing wheelchair, fortifying their shared goal of reaching the milestone together. Gallardo remains committed to finishing alongside Bingham, even vowing to carry his friend if necessary, symbolizing the collective spirit and camaraderie among the Legacy Runners.