Shalane Flanagan, the first American woman to win the New York City marathon in 40 years, is a trailblazer in more ways than one. In 2009, she pioneered a new way of training, bringing together a group of professional female distance runners who train together and build each other up. Many credit Shalane's influence for their success, even their sticking with their career. And Shalane says training with successful women makes her more successful, and gives her success more meaning. Read more via The New York Times.