28: Calli Hauger-Thackery, on shifting mindsets, romance and racing like crazy

This episode is sponsored by Mikro Coffee Roasters. Head to Mikro.coffee and use code RUNWITHIT10 for 10% off.

Calli Hauger-Thackery is a born racer. She ran a debut marathon that most athletes would fantasise about – 2:22:17 – which earnt her the title of 2nd fastest British woman ever (shared with Charlotte Purdue at the time).

But Calli describes her 2023 debut as both a blessing and a curse. Her time qualified her for the Paris Olympics, which would be her second marathon ever – talk about baptism by fire!  After a disappointing DNF at Paris, Calli bounced back in a BIG way! She came 7th at Berlin in 2024, running a PB of 2:21:24, solidifying her place as the 2nd best Brit all-time. And earlier this year, she put herself right in the mix at Boston, coming home with 6th place.

We talk about Calli’s time training with Melbourne Track Club a few years back, and the mindset shift she made after some frustrating years of not making teams. Calli now has plenty of opportunities in front of her. She’s been selected to run the marathon for Great Britain at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo this year, but is likely to have another option in the 10,000m (maybe even the 5,000m – let’s see)!

And most importantly, we also get the love story between Calli and now husband/coach Nick Hauger – and it’s a real goodie!  

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Intro/outro music by Dan Beacom

Graphic design by Kate Scheer