Experts weigh in on running debate sweeping the Internet

Running and golf may both be beloved outdoor pastimes for men and women in their 30s, but that’s where the similarities end. One sport is a race against the clock; the other doesn’t even have one.

Last week on X, running commentator Alex Predhome (@Predamame) posed a question to his followers, which ignited debate: What’s harder to achieve? A sub-3:30 marathon, or breaking 100 strokes in an 18-hole round of golf?

What’s harder?

— Alex Predhome, Track and Field Enjoyer (@Predamame) November 13, 2025

Both benchmarks, running 3:29:59 or shooting 99, are considered slightly above average. There’s no doubt each requires a meaningful level of consistency, commitment and training. But if a healthy 30-year-old with zero experience in either sport started training tomorrow, which milestone would they reach first?

To find out, we asked two experts in their respective fields (Canada’s second fastest marathoner and a member of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame) to weigh in.

Rory Linketter

(a 2:06 marathoner, who’s also broken 100)

“The answer is breaking 100 in golf. Although a sub-3:30 marathon probably requires more time to accomplish, it largely depends on the person.”

Bob Weeks

(TSN golf analyst, Canadian Golf Hall of Fame member and lifelong runner)

“It’s a great question. For me, I’ve broken 100 lots of times, but haven’t managed a sub-3:30 run. I think it’s easier to break 100, as you can continue to do it into your 50s, 60s and beyond. My 93-year-old dad shot 88. Plus, you can play golf 100 times in a season, whereas it is difficult to find 100 marathons. 

“I’d say both are achievements! Since they each require a lot of dedication and training.”