Conner Mantz has emerged as one of the most formidable marathoners in the United States, captivating the running world with his remarkable performances and unwavering determination. From his collegiate triumphs to his Olympic debut and record-breaking achievements, Mantz’s journey is a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport.
Early Life and Collegiate Career
Born on December 8, 1996, in Logan, Utah, Conner Blair Mantz exhibited an early affinity for distance running. His athletic journey began at Sky View High School in Smithfield, Utah, where he was a three-time All-American at the Foot Locker Cross Country Championships. His prowess on the track and field further solidified his reputation, earning him a spot on the 2015 USA Junior World Cross Country Championships team.
Choosing to further his running career and education, Mantz committed to Brigham Young University (BYU), turning down offers from institutions like Princeton and Furman. Before starting at BYU, he took a two-year hiatus to serve as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Ghana. Upon his return in 2017, Mantz redshirted his first year, laying a solid foundation for his collegiate career.
At BYU, Mantz’s impact was immediate. He clinched the 2020 and 2021 NCAA Division I Cross Country Championships, becoming the first American to win the event since Galen Rupp in 2008. His track performances were equally impressive, setting a world-leading time of 13:34.46 over 5000 meters at the UW Invitational in February 2021 and breaking the BYU school record for the indoor 5000 meters later that year.
U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials 2024
In February 2024, Mantz showcased his marathon potential by winning the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in Orlando, Florida, with a time of 2:09:05. This victory secured his spot on the U.S. team for the 2024 Paris Olympics. His training partner, Clayton Young, finished second, highlighting the strength of their partnership.
2024 Paris Olympics: A Historic Debut
The 2024 Paris Olympics marked Mantz’s debut on the global stage. Despite challenging conditions, including a hilly course and hot weather, Mantz finished eighth in the men’s marathon with a time of 2:08:12. This performance was the fastest by an American in Olympic marathon history, underscoring his resilience and determination.
Boston Marathon 2025: A Near Miss
In April 2025, Mantz competed in the Boston Marathon, aiming for a podium finish. He ran one of the great Boston Marathons in U.S. history, placing fourth with a time of 2:05:08, just 4 seconds behind the second and third finishers. This time was the second fastest ever by an American on the storied course, behind only Ryan Hall’s 2:04:58 from 2011. Mantz’s performance solidified his status as a top contender in the marathon circuit.
Chicago Marathon 2025: Record-Breaking Performance
On October 12, 2025, Mantz made history at the Chicago Marathon by breaking the longstanding American marathon record with a time of 2:04:43. He ran at an average pace of 4:45 per mile, surpassing Khalid Khannouchi’s 2002 record by 55 seconds. This achievement marked a significant milestone in Mantz’s career and American marathon history.
Marathon Career Highlights
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2022 Chicago Marathon: Debuted with a time of 2:08:16, the second fastest debut by an American.
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2024 New York City Marathon: Finished sixth with a time of 2:09:00, the fastest for an American man since 1981.
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2025 Houston Half Marathon: Set a new American record with a time of 59:17.
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2025 Chicago Marathon: Broke the American marathon record with a time of 2:04:43.
Training and Philosophy
Mantz attributes his success to a combination of disciplined training, strategic racing, and a balanced perspective on life. He works closely with his coach, Ed Eyestone, and emphasizes the importance of mental preparation. Mantz has also collaborated with a sports psychologist to manage expectations and approach races with curiosity and determination.
Looking Ahead
As Mantz continues to break barriers in the marathon, his future in the sport looks promising. His dedication, combined with his strategic approach to racing, positions him as a leading figure in American distance running. Fans and fellow athletes alike eagerly anticipate his next move, confident that Mantz will continue to inspire and set new standards in the world of marathon running.
Conclusion
Conner Mantz‘s journey from a high school prodigy to an Olympic marathoner and American record holder is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and passion for the sport. As he continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in marathon running, Mantz remains an inspiration to athletes worldwide, proving that with hard work and determination, records are meant to be broken.
