The Runna Podcast “Anything Is Possible”: Double Paralympic Champion Richard Whitehead MBE on 92 Marathons & World Records
Aug 1, 2025
Richard Whitehead MBE, a double Paralympic gold medalist and four-time world champion, shares his inspiring journey from overcoming childhood challenges to achieving athletic success. He discusses his late start in marathon running at 28 with specialized prosthetics and the importance of inclusivity in sports for the 16 million individuals in the UK with disabilities. Richard also shares his humorous take on marathon fuel mishaps and dreams of an ideal race experience that’s flat, inclusive, and fueled by pizza. His story is a powerful reminder of resilience and belief.
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First Run at 28 Years
- Richard received his first running prosthetics at 28 and immediately signed up for the New York City Marathon.
- He trained minimally and ran the marathon with great determination despite limited preparation.
Marathon Mental Struggles
- Richard struggled mentally and physically during his first marathon, occasionally stopping and doubting if he'd finish.
- He found strength from a friend's battle with cancer to keep going and complete the race.
Overcoming Paralympic Doubts
- Richard had to overcome skepticism, being told he was too old and unlikely to be selected for the 2012 Paralympics.
- He famously broke a prosthetic blade days before the World Championships but still won gold, proving doubters wrong.