Running a marathon isn’t just a physical test; it’s a mental battlefield. Few know that better than Grand Marshal Des Linden, the two-time Olympian who’s tackled countless miles and challenges along the way. But this time, the veteran runner steps into a new role, as mentor to a 33-year-old American star, whose performance first stole hearts in Hamilton, yes, that musical. After conquering music, film, and television, he is now set to take on his toughest stage yet, the New York City Marathon.

Confused? We are talking about Anthony Ramos. We’re just days away from the grand finale of the marathon season, the iconic New York City Marathon, kicking off from Staten Island and winding through all five boroughs before concluding in Central Park. Ahead of his highly anticipated marathon debut, Anthony Ramos shared inspiring montages of his training alongside former race Grand Marshal Des Linden, “Most people do not just wake up and say, ‘I’m gonna run 26.2 miles,’ but I did when I found out I was partnering with Des. I mean, I was a little intimidated—she’s the real deal.”

Well, Linden is the real deal, a two-time Olympian who has run numerous marathons throughout her career. After facing heartbreak at the London 2012 Marathon, where an injury forced her to withdraw, she made a remarkable comeback at the Rio 2016 Olympics, finishing a strong seventh. Upon returning from Rio, she was honored as a Grand Marshal at the TCS New York City Marathon, representing the U.S. Olympic team.

Her being Ramos’ partner is quite beneficial for him. Talking about the actor, Linden stated, “It’s super cool to be training with Anthony. He’s a guy who knows NYC, but is not running. Crossing a marathon finish is special, but the first time is really cool because you go from being a runner to being a marathoner—and it changes your life.” Linden has the experience; however, she knows that the New York Marathon is a challenging course that winds through the streets of New York to Central Park.

From the heat of the asphalt to the hustle and bustle of the city, it presents a unique challenge. Yet, this run is especially meaningful, not just for her, but for Ramos as well, “I think it does mean a lot more to Anthony. He’s running through his neighborhood and the things that shaped him and made him who he is,” said Linden. Well, as he makes his debut at the New York Marathon, the actor is ready for all the hubbub ahead — but the training has been anything but easy. So, what intrigued him to start running? Let’s find out.

Anthony Ramos on why he is taking part in the New York Marathon

Back in high school, Ramos was always an athlete; baseball was his thing, but distance running? Well, it was a far-fetched thing. Sure, he’s done plenty of sprints, burpees, and mountain climbers to get into shape for his roles, but logging miles just for the thrill of it? It never crossed his mind, however, one fine day, he woke up with a thought, “Why the hell not?” Maybe it was a spark of boredom, but now he is on the verge of running in the New York Marathon.

“I wanted to do it because I just think I had never done a marathon before, and I don’t remember the last time I pushed myself this hard,” he said. “I’ve trained for movies and stuff, but I haven’t had to push myself like the way I have to for this. I just had a random day this year, and I called my manager and was like, ‘Yo, I don’t really know how to get into the marathon, but like can you help me do this?’”

So, with a little pep talk, he decided to run the marathon. It’s been months since he began training to conquer all 26.2 miles, and with Des Linden as his guide, he’s ready to take on the challenge. As for what position he’ll finish in, only time will tell.