Olympic Marathoner Pfitzinger Inspires Cornell via Zoom

Pete Pfitzinger, a former Cornell University cross country and track athlete, has been recognized for his achievements in marathon running. Pfitzinger, who is an alumnus of Cornell's Division of Agriculture and Life Sciences, won the 1984 U.S. Olympic marathon trials and twice won the San Francisco marathon, recording a personal best time of 2:11:43. He also placed third in the New York City marathon in 1987. In 1984, Track & Field News ranked him as the top American marathoner.

Pfitzinger competed in the Olympic marathons in 1984 and 1988, serving as the top-finishing American in both events. After earning his MBA in 1982 and later completing a master’s degree in exercise physiology in his late 30s, he contributed for a decade as a columnist on training for Running Times magazine.

Recently, Cornellians connected with Pfitzinger via a Zoom meeting at his home in New Zealand. During the conversation, he offered advice for individuals planning to start running, including those considering the challenge of running a 26.2-mile marathon or simply planning to become more active in the new year.

Further details about the event and Pfitzinger’s advice were shared by Cornell University in Ithaca.

Jan 7, 2026 at 8:30 AM College

GIAC Proposes 24/7 Daycare, Seeks Feedback

GIAC plans 24/7 daycare and seeks community feedback on the project.

Jan 8, 2026 at 3:30 PM Gov

Ithaca Taps Moody as Permanent Fire Chief

Michael Moody named permanent Fire Chief of Ithaca, voted unanimously by council.

Jan 8, 2026 at 11:16 AM Gov

Cornell Report Reveals Pelvic Floor Myths Among Women

Pelvic floor issues affect many women but are treatable, not inevitable.

Jan 8, 2026 at 8:30 AM College

Ithaca Urges Winter Park Precautions

Ithaca urges safe park visits during winter weather.

Jan 6, 2026 at 3:44 PM Gov

Cornell Report: Atkinson Hall Praised for Picturesque Charm

Cornell report praises picturesque Atkinson Hall at its Sustainability center.

Jan 6, 2026 at 3:43 PM College

Ithaca Suspends Odd-Even Parking Rule Temporarily

Ithaca suspends odd-even parking; drivers may park without restrictions.

Jan 6, 2026 at 11:56 AM Gov

Doug Derraugh Powers Cornell Women's Hockey Triumphs

Doug Derraugh spent 20 years successfully coaching Cornell women's ice hockey.

Jan 6, 2026 at 8:30 AM College

Study Urges Proper Temperature for Safe Formula

Researchers suggest heating water in baby formula to destroy harmful Cronobacter bacteria.

Jan 5, 2026 at 8:30 AM College

Cornell's Guilday Named U.S. Olympic Hockey Representative

Rory Guilday makes historic U.S. Olympic hockey debut as Cornell's first member.

Jan 3, 2026 at 8:30 AM College