Tebello Ramakongoana earned an astounding 7th place at the Olympic Marathon in Paris running 2:07:58 (79.8 VDOT) on the hardest marathon course in Olympic history. This is the highest Olympic placing ever for an athlete on V.O2. Tebello surpassed VDOT Coach Malindi Elmore’s 9th place finish at the Tokyo Olympics. This is also the fastest marathon ever for an athlete training on our platform.

Photo by Jane Monti

Tebello has been training on V.O2 for the past two years with coach James McKirdy. He caps off an incredible season with his 5th national record (Marathon, 5k, 12k, half marathon, and marathon once again).

“A key element in our training concepts is many of the principles of Dr. Jack Daniels and the V.O2 system. I’ve been a faithful coach with V.O2 for 10 years,” says McKirdy.

McKirdy Trained is one of the most successful coaching groups in the world. Their success on V.O2 illustrates how VDOT training produces results for beginners just as effectively as elite/professional runners.

More from Coach James…

I’ve learned (and continue to learn) that science and art CAN be combined into a concept that provides a safe environment whilst finding wonderful success over the many disciplines of our sport.

V.O2 allows for freedom within the science I’ve learned and the art of shaping that science to the individual in front of me. Tebello’s result at the Olympics was a culmination of knowledge and practice. Mistakes and successes at all levels.

It’s the same process for any of those in our care – regardless of ability. We are so grateful to have this application, and we have seen firsthand how it can be an invaluable tool to serve run/walk athletes as well as Olympians – and everyone between.