51: Jimmy Whelan – Former Pro-Cyclist Soft Launches Marathon Debut!

Former pro-cyclist Jimmy Whelan reveals where he intends to run his debut marathon later this year – you’ll have to listen to find out! Dialling in from his home in Barcelona, Jimmy talks about his transition from pro cycling to a brief stint as a triathlete and his newfound status as a professional runner sponsored by Salomon. He’s never been happier as an athlete! And we tap into what that’s all about. We talk about his breakout 61:37 half marathon in Valencia, the disappointment of Berlin half, the chatter centred on his scorching potential, and why he’s not afraid to say big goals out loud, including his ambition to be in the marathon conversation for the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. Jimmy also gives us a unique window into pro cycling on the European circuit. Aside from the joys of long group rides, living in Europe and café stops, the other headlines are: stress, contract pressure and terrifying crashes, which all ultimately pushed him away from the sport and back towards his first love of running. It’s a full-circle moment for Jimmy, and what a pleasure it was to talk through his evolution and reinvention as an athlete on the pod! Enjoy! -- James “Jimmy” Whelan is an Australian athlete whose career has spanned professional cycling, triathlon and now distance running. Jimmy made a real statement last year when he ran a 61-minute half marathon in Valencia, attracting the attention of the athletics community and major sponsors alike. Now signed with Salomon, and coached by Andy Henderson, Jimmy has his sights set on the marathon distance, hoping to make his debut later this year. Jimmy’s professional cycling career included affiliations with renowned teams such as Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team, Anicolor/Tien21 Cycling Team and EF Pro Cycling. Jimmy is currently based in Barcelona, Spain. -- Subscribe to Run With It wherever you get your podcasts, so you don’t miss a thing! -- Check out Jimmy’s YouTube: [youtube.com/@jimmywhelan](mailto:youtube.com/@jimmywhelan) -- Follow us on Instagram: @jimmywhelann @runwithit.pod @elisebeacom -- Intro/outro music by Dan Beacom Graphic design by Kate Scheer