Hicks Mittelholzer has set his sights on running a marathon in under two hours and 50 minutes after a disciplined performance at the Atlantic City Marathon brought the Guyanese runner his long-awaited breakthrough below three hours.
Mittelholzer recorded a chip time of 2:57:32 on Sunday, October 18, finishing 21st overall among 1,239 classified marathon finishers in New Jersey. He was also eighth in the men’s 20–29 age-group standings, which comprised 225 runners.
The result placed him among just 30 finishers who broke three hours, giving him fresh confidence as he prepares to pursue a faster time.
“While I am proud of this milestone, the journey continues. My next major goal is to run a marathon in under 2 hours and 50 minutes,” he said.
“I understand that reaching that level will require greater discipline, smarter training and continued support, but this performance has strengthened my belief that it is possible.”
His Atlantic City success followed adjustments to his preparation, especially his fuelling and hydration. During the race, Mittelholzer maintained a disciplined intake of energy gels, fluids and electrolytes, helping him preserve his energy and keep moving through difficult moments.
Managing the mental demands of the race was another important part of his approach. Rather than repeatedly thinking about the finishing time, he focused on completing each mile, remaining composed and executing the plan developed during training.
That approach carried him to the finish two minutes and 28 seconds inside his target.
Mittelholzer described the achievement as one of the most meaningful moments of his journey as a long-distance athlete. He said it represented the early mornings, difficult sessions, sacrifices and consistent effort that took place before race day.
Support also played an important role. He thanked the Ministry of Natural Resources, Royal Castle, International Imports and Supplies, and Akbar Auto Sales for helping make his participation possible.
“Their assistance played an important role in making this opportunity possible, and I am proud to have represented them and Guyana on the international stage,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation to his family, friends and the running community, acknowledging everyone who sent messages or offered encouragement.
At the front of the marathon field, Andrew Madigan took victory in 2:29:13, with Jr Creekmore second in 2:35:24 and Marty McCormick third in 2:39:05. Sydney Koons won the women’s race in 3:07:24, ahead of Jessica Petersen’s 3:08:36 and Corinne Barney’s 3:08:55.
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