The ING New York City Marathon is arguably the biggest, most important event in the world of running. But more than this, it is the thousands of runners from all over the world coming together to test their strength, stamina, and will. This is their story.

Thai boxing it isn't. It is Cambodian. It was born in the deepest of Khmer history, engraved in the stone of Angkor. Its violence comes as a counterpoint to the softness of its inhabitants' gestures and the gentleness in their eyes. It reminds one of the dazzling brutality which can be accumulated by restraint. Insecurity pushes the limits of physical pain—and poor countries (Cuba, Angola), or social outcasts (the Bronx, Les Minguettes) necessarily produce good fighters. Cambodia is no exception.