With the New York City Marathon this weekend, there’s tons of great stories out there about people who will toe the line. My three favorites, so far:

Jen Miller’s story of facing her own ideas of self-acceptance and body image, and losing 25 pounds before this marathon — after running several at heavier weights. She also has a memoir coming out early next year that I’m excited to read.

How Carley Houser overcame alcoholism by running and is fundraising for the awesome organization Back On My Feet.

And, after following along with her training this season, being inspired by my (online) friend Linda. She’s had a great training cycle and, as someone who was a marathoner before and after a cancer diagnosis in 2008, always has a fresh and frank perspective.