What does the lets run community think about aiming for a fast first marathon...is this possible? On one hand you have the elites who tend to attempt the marathon after years of racing the shorter distances. Is it possible for the avid runner to take this approach too? On the other side you see many people who have run several marathons and each time have shed off more and more time. I guess my question is does it take years of experience with running marathons to reach your fastest time....or can you opt not to do several marathons and still reach your fastest time without killing your legs?