EP294: Run2PB Ballarat Recap Special with Rory Flanagan on his PB Performance.

In episode 294 of the Better With Running podcast, hosts Chris Armstrong and Zac Newman reflect on a massive weekend of racing at the Ballarat Marathon and Half Marathon. Chris shares his personal success in the half marathon, where he clocked a time of 1:21:34—a one-minute improvement from the previous year. He attributes this success to a psychological shift encouraged by his best friend, Lauren, who challenged him to abandon his conservative racing nature and take aggressive risks early on. This strategy forced him to dig deep during a "pain cave" at 18 kilometers, where he found perspective by reflecting on the grit his friend showed during childbirth, ultimately helping him grind out the final 12 minutes of the race.

The episode features returning guest Rory Flanagan, a beloved figure in the Run2PB community who recently secured a marathon PB of 2:40:46 in Ballarat. Rory discusses his background as a former 400-meter runner and soccer player who rediscovered running during COVID, eventually teaming up with coach Benny Stoltz. Despite an "ideal-less" preparation marked by a 10-week Achilles flare-up and missed long runs due to work, Rory managed to peak on race day, supported by an "entourage" on bikes revving him up around the lake.

Rory also provides a spirited update on the Choccy Milk Run Club (CMRC) in Bendigo, describing the group as a mix of "geriatric old men" who provide essential social relief and humor. . The camaraderie was on full display in Ballarat, highlighted by a humorous CMRC sign on the course that provided much-needed laughs during the grueling second lap.

The technical side of racing is explored through Rory’s experiences with gear and environmental conditions. He notes the strong winds in Ballarat, which at one point made his race bib feel like a "spinnaker" pulling him sideways, though he rated the overall conditions as a manageable 6 out of 10 compared to previous "howling" half marathons.

Looking ahead, Rory is setting his sights on the Chicago Marathon in October. He plans to embrace a shorter marathon block while continuing to integrate cross-training on the bike to manage his physical longevity. Zac and Chris express their excitement for his journey, noting that the "crowd support on another level" in U.S. marathons will be a transformative experience for him as he continues to chase sub-2:40.

With thanks to Oat Running Socks for their support of this episode. Check out www.oatrunning.com.au and use the code Run2PB15 for 15% off you order.