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- The Herd | Edition 28
The Herd | Edition 28
Emil Zatopek, Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Bites, and the 800m Excitement at the 2025 USATF Championships
The Herd | Edition No. 28
Happy Saturday and welcome back to The Herd! We’re going long this week - long distance that is. Emil Zatopek is our focus this week, read on to learn about his outstanding performance in the 1952 Olympics. And check out this week’s recipe card for a healthy snack that will fuel your miles. Let’s dive in!
Emil Zatopek
Emil Zatopek, often called the “Czech Locomotive,” was a revolutionary long-distance runner whose perseverance and unconventional training methods helped him rise from humble beginnings in Czechoslovakia to international stardom. Known for his grueling interval workouts and intense focus, Zatopek broke 18 world records over his career and became a national hero for his Olympic achievements. His distinctively awkward running style and his determination to push the boundaries of the sport made him both a beloved figure and a trailblazer in distance running (1, 2, 3).
The 1952 Helsinki Olympics are the centerpiece of Zatopekʼs legendary career and stand as one of the greatest performances in Olympic history. That summer, Zatopek accomplished the unprecedented: he won gold in the 5,000 meters, 10,000 meters, and the marathon—all at a single Games. What made these victories even more significant was the manner in which he claimed them. In the 5,000 meters, he sprinted from fourth to first on the final turn with a 57.5 second last lap; in the marathon, he decided only at the last minute to compete despite never having run the event before, then dominated the field and broke the Olympic record. His feats have never been matched—no other athlete has won all three distance events at a single Olympics. Zatopekʼs performance not only confirmed his brilliance but also redefined what was thought possible in distance running .
Beyond the records and medals, Zatopekʼs approach to racing and training inspired generations of runners. Equally known for his sportsmanship—he was famously talkative with fellow competitors even during races—and innovative interval training, his story stands as a testament to resilience, ambition, and the spirit of pushing past limits
🍫 Oatmeal Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Energy Bites
Ingredients:
1 cup old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup natural peanut butter
1/3 cup honey
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
1/4 cup ground flaxseed (optional, for added fiber)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
In a medium bowl, mix all ingredients until well combined.
Chill the mixture in the fridge for 20–30 minutes (this makes it easier to roll).
Roll into 1-inch balls using your hands or a cookie scoop.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week—or freeze for longer!
💡 Pro Tip: Add a tablespoon of chia seeds or shredded coconut for texture and extra energy.
US Track & Field Outdoor Championships
High school junior Cooper Lutkenhaus is advancing to the U.S. Championships 800m final! Cooper finished in 1:45.57 in the semi-final, right behind defending U.S. Champion Bryce Hoppel. He is the youngest man to advance to the final which will be held Sunday afternoon in Eugene, OR.
Emil Zátopek’s relentless spirit reminds us that greatness comes from grit—and snacks help too. If you’re hitting the track or just chasing your next goal, keep fueling smart and running strong. Catch you next week for more stories & strategies!