Clayton Young, a 33-year-old Olympian, aims for the American marathon record in Chicago. His best time is 2:05:41, set in Boston. Young has improved his times in each Chicago Marathon.

Young's marathon debut was 2:29:46 in 2020. He improved to 2:11:51 in 2022. After knee surgery, he ran 2:08:00 in 2023. His fastest time is 2:05:41 in Boston. Read more culture coverage.

Young's target is Conner Mantz's 2:04:43 in Chicago. Young has a hamstring injury but plans to race. Four Americans under 2:07 are in the field, including Charles Hicks and Galen Rupp. Related: Vinny Mauri to Challenge Elite Field in 2026 Chicago Marathon.

This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.