The Running Channel Podcast 146: "He Will Do Something Special" - Andy's Running Valencia
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Nov 29, 2025 Andy Hobdell is an athletics coach and criminal lawyer who trains elite runners and founded the UK-based Team Makau. In this chat, he shares insights on guiding Andy Baddeley through tough training for Valencia and offers anecdotes on the unique dynamics of coaching. They discuss the importance of training groups, balancing athlete personalities, and the emotional aspects of coaching. Hobdell expresses optimism about Baddeley's prospects in Valencia while explaining Team Makau's mission to nurture talent for future athletic success.
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Longstanding Coach–Athlete Friendship
- Andy Hobdell was Baddeley's best man but had to stay silent, reflecting a long friendship and shared history.
- Hobdell coached Baddeley from 2001 onward and even changed clothes on the tube before the London Olympics.
Training Groups Multiply Performance
- Training groups produce energy, banter and shared effort that elevate performance.
- Hobdell and Baddeley credit group dynamics for unlocking athletes' best sessions and major performances.
A Mantra That Worked
- Before the Dream Mile in Oslo Baddeley called Hobdell feeling fragile and received a motivating phrase.
- Hobdell's sign-off "let's do this crazy shit" became a psychological trigger for performance.