Conner Mantz’s arms were shaking as he warmed up for the Olympic marathon trials in Orlando in February. Mr. Mantz, 27, of Provo, Utah, looked over to his close friend, Clayton Young, who was stretching next to him. They had raced for the same prize money, fought for the same spots on the podium — and formed a bond so strong that other runners said they wished they could replicate it. Now, they hoped to get each other to the marathon at the Olympic Games in Paris. They had a real shot: Mr. Mantz was a favorite to qualify, and Mr. Young was a strong contender.

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Persons: Conner Mantz’s, Mantz, Clayton Young, Young Organizations: Mr, Olympic Games Locations: Orlando, Provo , Utah, Paris