Straight after the London Athletics Meet we thought we'd drop you a special, no frills episode discussing all the highlights. We chat about sensational performances from Femke Bol, Max Burgin, Ryan Crouser, Noah Lyles, Maree Jose Ta Lou, Jemma Reekie and many more!!! Roll on Budapest. Head over to Instagram @backstraightboyspodcast for interviews with all the stars Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Straight after the London Athletics Meet we thought we'd drop you a special, no frills episode discussing all the highlights. We chat about sensational performances from Femke Bol, Max Burgin, Ryan Crouser, Noah Lyles, Maree Jose Ta Lou, Jemma Reekie and many more!!! Roll on Budapest.  Head over to Instagram @backstraightboyspodcast for interviews with all the stars Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

The Meet Us In London Edition

There's been a feast of athletics over the last few weeks so we invited our good friend and athletics fanatic Lloyd Kempson to join as talk all things track.Lloyd is a runner, coach and co-owner of the Track and Field social media platform @Trackstaa.We chat about UK and US Trials, the Euro U23's, the Silesia Diamond League but mostly our current obsession with the w800m. Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

There's been a feast of athletics over the last few weeks so we invited our good friend and athletics fanatic Lloyd Kempson to join as talk all things track. Lloyd is a runner, coach and co-owner of the Track and Field social media platform @Trackstaa. We chat about UK and US Trials, the Euro U23's, the Silesia Diamond League but mostly our current obsession with the w800m. Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

The Trials and Tribulations Edition with Lloyd Kempson

It's been 2 months since Jody and Bayo were in the same room together. Now that they have stopped gallivating around the world, it's time to reunite and discuss everything that has been going on this season. Join us to chat about our favourite performances so far this year and the UK Trials happening this weekend (Just don't mention pacing lights).  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

It's been 2 months since Jody and Bayo were in the same room together. Now that they have stopped gallivating around the world, it's time to reunite and discuss everything that has been going on this season. Join us to chat about our favourite performances so far this year and the UK Trials happening this weekend (Just don't mention pacing lights).  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

A Backstraight Reunion: The 'Don't Mention Pacing Lights' Edition

Anyika Onuora

A few months back Anyika Onuora was our guest on Instagram Live to discuss her wonderful new book My Hidden Race. Had so many requests that promised to release it as a pod so that all of our listeners not on Instagram can hear her fascinating story, so, by popular demand, here it is.Apologies for the sound quality, we've had to rip the audio from IG but hope you enjoy listening to her as much as we did.AND BUY THE BOOK!!! I can't recommend it enough. So many behind the scenes stories and so much detail about the lives of athletes off the track that us fans never even consider.Big thanks to Mel Anning for editing.  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

A few months back Anyika Onuora was our guest on Instagram Live to discuss her wonderful new book My Hidden Race. Had so many requests that promised to release it as a pod so that all of our listeners not on Instagram can hear her fascinating story, so, by popular demand, here it is. Apologies for the sound quality, we've had to rip the audio from IG but hope you enjoy listening to her as much as we did. AND BUY THE BOOK!!! I can't recommend it enough. So many behind the scenes stories and so much detail about the lives of athletes off the track that us fans never even consider. Big thanks to Mel Anning for editing.  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Anyika Onuora - My Hidden Race

Jazmin Sawyers

We usually save out interview specials for retired legends of the sport but after this  winter's exploits we 'Why wait?'. Here's everybody's favourite singing Long Jumper, Jazmin Sawyers.Big thanks to Mel Anning for editing. Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

We usually save out interview specials for retired legends of the sport but after this  winter's exploits we 'Why wait?'. Here's everybody's favourite singing Long Jumper, Jazmin Sawyers. Big thanks to Mel Anning for editing. Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Jazmin Sawyers Interview Special

We promised to repost some of our fave Backstraight episodes and what better place to start than our UK Sprint Queen Special from back in 2018.Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all of our socials Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

We promised to repost some of our fave Backstraight episodes and what better place to start than our UK Sprint Queen Special from back in 2018. Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all of our socials Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Re-Run: UK Sprint Queen Special

Keely made it look easy, Karsten was in PB form, Nafi made history and Jaz had us all jumping for joy. The Boys have been journalising in Istanbul and in the studio they are joined by a lady who loves athletics as much as they do - Mel Anning. Journalist and administrator in Sussex, a founding trustee of the Lloyd Cowan Bursary  - which supports young athletes and coaches - and mum of three sporty girls including 400m specialist Amber Anning, Mel joins us to talk all things Euro Indoors.We also chat to a host of stars about their Istanbul exploits. Listen in to hear from Laura Muir, Femke Bol, Kevin Mayer, Karsten Warholm, Nafi Thiam, Long Jump Queen Jaz Sawyers and more!!! Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Keely made it look easy, Karsten was in PB form, Nafi made history and Jaz had us all jumping for joy. The Boys have been journalising in Istanbul and in the studio they are joined by a lady who loves athletics as much as they do - Mel Anning.  Journalist and administrator in Sussex, a founding trustee of the Lloyd Cowan Bursary  - which supports young athletes and coaches - and mum of three sporty girls including 400m specialist Amber Anning, Mel joins us to talk all things Euro Indoors. We also chat to a host of stars about their Istanbul exploits. Listen in to hear from Laura Muir, Femke Bol, Kevin Mayer, Karsten Warholm, Nafi Thiam, Long Jump Queen Jaz Sawyers and more!!! Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Nafi, Jakob and All That Jaz: European Athletics Indoor Championships Review with Special Guest Mel Anning

Having been unceremoniously dumped by their devoted girlfriend of the last 5 years, the newly single boys run back into the arms of an old flame and welcome OG Backstraight Boy, Matt Wood onto the show. It was Matt who introduced Claire and the twins in the first place so you have him to thank for the last 5 years of podcast mayhem.A former GB international Matt now heads Run Through, organising large scale running events across the the UK to keep you all fit. You can see see more of what he’s up to at @mattwoodywood and @runthroughukThis episode they’ll be previewing The European Indoor Champs and discussing some of most anticipated clashes before jetting of to Istanbul and chatting to all the stars in person. Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Having been unceremoniously dumped by their devoted girlfriend of the last 5 years, the newly single boys run back into the arms of an old flame and welcome OG Backstraight Boy, Matt Wood onto the show. It was Matt who introduced Claire and the twins in the first place so you have him to thank for the last 5 years of podcast mayhem. A former GB international Matt now heads <a href="https://www.runthrough.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Run Through</a>, organising large scale running events across the the UK to keep you all fit. You can see see more of what he’s up to at @mattwoodywood and @runthroughuk This episode they’ll be previewing The European Indoor Champs and discussing some of most anticipated clashes before jetting of to Istanbul and chatting to all the stars in person. Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

New Era, Old Flames:  An Exciting Istanbul Preview

Our 100th episode passed us by in a flash. Like a home straight Kyle Langford. Like the naps you desperately snatch whilst balancing a championship across the globe with your commitments at home. Like the time between each jaw-dropping performance from Rojas and Duplantis. We missed it just as surely as we've habitually missed Diamond Leagues (why are they so inconsistently scheduled??) since starting this podcast - all the way back in 2017.'Better late than never' we figured, and so we sat down - on New Year's Eve of 2022 - to look back at the show so far. We reminisced about doing parkrun, about interviewing some of the greatest that've ever done it, about screwed-up fantasy predictions, and about the moments which have stayed with us - of which there are many.So, without further ado: here's 71 minutes of nostalgia and laughter. We hope you enjoy it.And - from Claire - thanks for having me. It's been a complete and utter joy - and I hope you'll all stay in touch xoxoTwitter: @Claire_GThomas @BackstraightBInstagram: @backstraightboyspodcast @clairegthomas Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Our 100th episode passed us by in a flash.  Like a home straight Kyle Langford. Like the naps you desperately snatch whilst balancing a championship across the globe with your commitments at home. Like the time between each jaw-dropping performance from Rojas and Duplantis.  We missed it just as surely as we've habitually missed Diamond Leagues (why are they so inconsistently scheduled??) since starting this podcast - all the way back in 2017. 'Better late than never' we figured, and so we sat down - on New Year's Eve of 2022 - to look back at the show so far. We reminisced about doing parkrun, about interviewing some of the greatest that've ever done it, about screwed-up fantasy predictions, and about the moments which have stayed with us - of which there are many. So, without further ado: here's 71 minutes of nostalgia and laughter. We hope you enjoy it. And - from Claire - thanks for having me. It's been a complete and utter joy - and I hope you'll all stay in touch xoxo Twitter: @Claire_GThomas @BackstraightB Instagram: @backstraightboyspodcast @clairegthomas Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Old episodes, a new era, and an unwavering love of athletics: Backstraight's big look back

Jeanette Kwakye

Where to even begin? 2022 had it all: a World Indoors, World Outdoors, Commonwealths, Europeans, and the GOAT Shelly-Ann adjusting her hair mid-200 metres.Can you even believe that Marcel Jacobs beating Coleman in that fantastic 60m was only nine months ago? Us neither. It's bonkers how much athletics there's been this year. Bonkers and brilliant - but also impossible to summarise in a single podcast episode, unless you really, really know your onions.Enter: Jeanette. Sprint Queen turned Broadcast Queen, and an utter *delight* to discuss T&amp;F with. Honestly - it's left us buzzing for everything that's to come in 2023.We decide our performances, moments, athletes, and low points of the year - plus what we're most excited for next season. So, without further ado: here's our look back at the busiest twelve months in track and field history. We loved it. It was exhausting. We can't wait for next year. Let's never have one like it again...Twitter: @backstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomasInsta: @backstraightboyspodcast &amp; @clairegthomasThank you for all of your fantastic suggestions and personal highlights: we loved reading them. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all. Back soon xoxo Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Where to even begin? 2022 had it all: a World Indoors, World Outdoors, Commonwealths, Europeans, and the GOAT Shelly-Ann adjusting her hair mid-200 metres. Can you even believe that Marcel Jacobs beating Coleman in that fantastic 60m was only nine months ago? Us neither. It's bonkers how much athletics there's been this year. Bonkers and brilliant - but also impossible to summarise in a single podcast episode, unless you really, really know your onions. Enter: Jeanette. Sprint Queen turned Broadcast Queen, and an utter *delight* to discuss T&amp;F with. Honestly - it's left us buzzing for everything that's to come in 2023. We decide our performances, moments, athletes, and low points of the year - plus what we're most excited for next season.  So, without further ado: here's our look back at the busiest twelve months in track and field history. We loved it. It was exhausting. We can't wait for next year. Let's never have one like it again... Twitter: @backstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas Insta: @backstraightboyspodcast &amp; @clairegthomas Thank you for all of your fantastic suggestions and personal highlights: we loved reading them. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all. Back soon xoxo Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

I'm Dreaming of A Wightman Christmas: an Attempt to Review an Enormous 2022, with Jeanette Kwakye

Join Jody, Bayo, and Guests each fortnight (Or so) as they discuss athletics' hot topics, cover live events, and host stars of the sport in longer interview specials. Hit 'subscribe', give us a rating, and join in the conversation on Twitter: @BackstraightB and IG: @BackstraightBoysPodcast .Podcast imagery: Mark Shearman @athleticsimages

Join Jody, Bayo, and Guests each fortnight (Or so) as they discuss athletics' hot topics, cover live events, and host stars of the sport in longer interview specials. Hit 'subscribe', give us a rating, and join in the conversation on Twitter: @BackstraightB and IG: @BackstraightBoysPodcast .Podcast imagery: Mark Shearman @athleticsimages

Backstraight Boys (& Girl) Athletics Chat

Caster Semenya is a terrific talent. She is a fierce competitor. She is a dignified presence in a melting pot of opinions: an articulate and inspirational oasis in the face of a relentless tide of ignorance, knee-jerk reactions, and vitriol. We love the light-hearted on this pod, but put our usual flippancy to one side for a moment this week to discuss this historic legal case, and bemoan the lost art of sitting on the fence. It is okay to not have an answer to this conundrum; it is alright to not have a strong opinion on how the IAAF should navigate these immensely tricky waters.We also discuss the Doha Diamond League (have you joined our fantasy league yet? The pin’s 5533292. Good luck catching Claire…), and the glorious metaphor of Mo falling off that Tumbleator as he spatted and sniped his way to the London Marathon start line. To absolutely no one’s surprise, Eliud trounced the entire field whilst looking glacially serene, and there were some knockout British performances. Finally, we cast an eye over the baton-juggling bonanza that was the World Relays. Parabéns, Brazil!Remember: the fun doesn’t end when the episode does. You can (and should) chat to us on Twitter - @Claire_GThomas and @BackstraightB – and follow us on Instagram @BackstraightBoysPodcast. Ooh, and – whilst you’re up on that considered fence of yours, why don’t you leave us a review on your podcast provider? There are prizes to be won, and we honestly love hearing from you. Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Caster Semenya is a terrific talent. She is a fierce competitor. She is a dignified presence in a melting pot of opinions: an articulate and inspirational oasis in the face of a relentless tide of ignorance, knee-jerk reactions, and vitriol. We love the light-hearted on this pod, but put our usual flippancy to one side for a moment this week to discuss this historic legal case, and bemoan the lost art of sitting on the fence. It is okay to not have an answer to this conundrum; it is alright to not have a strong opinion on how the IAAF should navigate these immensely tricky waters.We also discuss the Doha Diamond League (have you joined our fantasy league yet? The pin’s 5533292. Good luck catching Claire…), and the glorious metaphor of Mo falling off that Tumbleator as he spatted and sniped his way to the London Marathon start line. To absolutely no one’s surprise, Eliud trounced the entire field whilst looking glacially serene, and there were some knockout British performances. Finally, we cast an eye over the baton-juggling bonanza that was the World Relays. Parabéns, Brazil!Remember: the fun doesn’t end when the episode does. You can (and should) chat to us on Twitter - @Claire_GThomas and @BackstraightB – and follow us on Instagram @BackstraightBoysPodcast. Ooh, and – whilst you’re up on that considered fence of yours, why don’t you leave us a review on your podcast provider? There are prizes to be won, and we honestly love hearing from you. Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

#46 - Caster’s Class, Doha’s Diamonds, and Eliud’s Enduring Excellence: Backstraight’s Take on the Last Few Weeks

Was Eliud Kipchoge's sub-two marathon an extraordinary athletic achievement? Or was it a technology-doped gimmick? Could it be viewed as both? A little late to the party, perhaps, but full of opinion as ever - we took a look at his history-making run through the streets of Vienna.Within 24 hours of that, Brigid Kosgei was smashing Paula's time in Chicago, and so fell one of the greatest statistical outliers in the sport: the longest-standing marathon record of the post-War era. What a time to be a distance runner, eh? That is, unless you want to compete on a track on the World Athletics circuit... #DiamondWhat?We also cast our eyes over the end-of-season awards, and - with hindsight - did a pretty good job guessing the winners... Finally - Christian Taylor's The Athletics Association is up and running, and Adam Gemili (plus others) are taking legal action against the British Olympic Association's application of Rule 40. We'll hear more over the coming weeks from athletes involved in both schemes, but it's fantastic to see them increasing their say over the governance of their own sport and careers. In the words of Billy Bragg: there is power in a union.@BackstraightB and @Claire_GThomas. You know what to do. Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Was Eliud Kipchoge's sub-two marathon an extraordinary athletic achievement? Or was it a technology-doped gimmick? Could it be viewed as both? A little late to the party, perhaps, but full of opinion as ever - we took a look at his history-making run through the streets of Vienna. Within 24 hours of that, Brigid Kosgei was smashing Paula's time in Chicago, and so fell one of the greatest statistical outliers in the sport: the longest-standing marathon record of the post-War era.  What a time to be a distance runner, eh? That is, unless you want to compete on a track on the World Athletics circuit... #DiamondWhat? We also cast our eyes over the end-of-season awards, and - with hindsight - did a pretty good job guessing the winners...  Finally - Christian Taylor's The Athletics Association is up and running, and Adam Gemili (plus others) are taking legal action against the British Olympic Association's application of Rule 40. We'll hear more over the coming weeks from athletes involved in both schemes, but it's fantastic to see them increasing their say over the governance of their own sport and careers. In the words of Billy Bragg: there is power in a union. @BackstraightB and @Claire_GThomas. You know what to do. Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

King Kipchoge, Awards Analysis, and Federation Formations: Records are Falling, but Athletes are Rising

Paula Radcliffe

We feel like we're putting away our track and field Russian dolls* here at Backstraight HQ, because the names just keep on getting bigger. The indoor season is just around the corner, at which point we'll be back in studio, bringing you all our usual mispronunciations, irreverence, and analysis, but we've one final interview special for you, and - boy, oh boy - is it a humdinger of a guest. Paula Radcliffe is a three-time London Marathon winner, has a trio of New York titles, won the Chicago marathon in 2002, and has held the world record at the distance for more than 15 years now. Her mark of 2:15.25 is one of athletics' Everests; a seemingly untouchable nirvana of distance running; the Shangri-La of endurance. Global medals over 26.2 and 13.1 miles, around the track, and over the cross; Paula represented Great Britain at four consecutive Olympic Games, with SPOTY titles and an MBE to show for it.She's also, as you're well aware, a seriously good pundit, and her measured, insightful, and articulate contributions on recent coverage have been glorious.Unfortunately, much like her tilts at Olympic glory, this episode has come slightly off the rails, in that Jody suffered a bit of a technical mishap at the recording stage. We've ended up with half of the interview, and the audio quality's horrible. Ultimately, though, it's a conversation with Paula Radcliffe, so we weren't going to not post it, were we..? Plug in, and enjoy. Thanks for stopping by; we love you all lots.* they won't let us anywhere near their state-sponsored labs, though. Bit weird. Anyone else's do that? Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

We feel like we're putting away our track and field Russian dolls* here at Backstraight HQ, because the names just keep on getting bigger. The indoor season is just around the corner, at which point we'll be back in studio, bringing you all our usual mispronunciations, irreverence, and analysis, but we've one final interview special for you, and - boy, oh boy - is it a humdinger of a guest.  Paula Radcliffe is a three-time London Marathon winner, has a trio of New York titles, won the Chicago marathon in 2002, and has held the world record at the distance for more than 15 years now. Her mark of 2:15.25 is one of athletics' Everests; a seemingly untouchable nirvana of distance running; the Shangri-La of endurance.  Global medals over 26.2 and 13.1 miles, around the track, and over the cross; Paula represented Great Britain at four consecutive Olympic Games, with SPOTY titles and an MBE to show for it. She's also, as you're well aware, a seriously good pundit, and her measured, insightful, and articulate contributions on recent coverage have been glorious. Unfortunately, much like her tilts at Olympic glory, this episode has come slightly off the rails, in that Jody suffered a bit of a technical mishap at the recording stage. We've ended up with half of the interview, and the audio quality's horrible. Ultimately, though, it's a conversation with Paula Radcliffe, so we weren't going to not post it, were we..?  Plug in, and enjoy. Thanks for stopping by; we love you all lots. * they won't let us anywhere near their state-sponsored labs, though. Bit weird. Anyone else's do that? Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

#40 - Unfathomable Hustle, Uncharted Territory, and Untouchable Records: Paula Radcliffe Interview Special

Radzi's back. He's an expert and a professional, who covered - with great warmth and nous, we might add - many of this year's major events. This recording should be plain-sailing... right?Of course not. Radzi thinks Kipchoge's sub-two was a phenomenal athletic performance. Jody and Bayo think it's a gimmick. Chaos ensues. He also thinks Christian Taylor might be his Male Athlete of the Year. Claire 'Keep it Karsten' Thomas is apoplectic.It was terrific fun, however, and we did agree on a few things: Muhammad's supremacy, the ridiculousness of some of the officiating in Doha, that a happy Kat is a pretty unbeatable Kat, and that we'll never forget Barshim's gold-winning performance, nor the men's shot put final.Thanks very much to those of you who sent in your thoughts on this year's highlights, and to all of you who listen to us. There's a proper Backstraight community growing, and we absolutely love it. Merry Christmas, don't forget to vote for Kat or Dina for Sports Personality, and let's raise a glass to what's been one hell of a year in the best sport of them all.@iamradzi @backstraightb @claire_gthomas x Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Radzi's back. He's an expert and a professional, who covered - with great warmth and nous, we might add - many of this year's major events. This recording should be plain-sailing... right? Of course not. Radzi thinks Kipchoge's sub-two was a phenomenal athletic performance. Jody and Bayo think it's a gimmick. Chaos ensues. He also thinks Christian Taylor might be his Male Athlete of the Year. Claire 'Keep it Karsten' Thomas is apoplectic. It was terrific fun, however, and we did agree on a few things: Muhammad's supremacy, the ridiculousness of some of the officiating in Doha, that a happy Kat is a pretty unbeatable Kat, and that we'll never forget Barshim's gold-winning performance, nor the men's shot put final. Thanks very much to those of you who sent in your thoughts on this year's highlights, and to all of you who listen to us. There's a proper Backstraight community growing, and we absolutely love it.  Merry Christmas, don't forget to vote for Kat or Dina for Sports Personality, and let's raise a glass to what's been one hell of a year in the best sport of them all. @iamradzi @backstraightb @claire_gthomas x Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Barshim's Back (so's Radzi), Kat's Beaming, and Athletics is Better (or is it?): Our 2019 Season Review

As gaffs go, we thought we'd be hard-pressed to beat missing the entire Stockholm round of the Fantasy Diamond League this season. Our rankings were decimated; our hearts broken. Our seasons, surely, can be written off just like this year's Nike Elite kit. But then Jody named an actual pacemaker as his team captain, and all bets were off. Oh, how we laughed (Jody aside...). Claire's captain? The resplendent Karsten Warholm, whose European record was the headline act of this week's Bislett Games, and one of the finest runs of the Diamond League season so far. We cast our eyes admiringly back over the last few meets, and - not so admiringly - over the IAAF's fresh look. 'World Athletics' is here, and it has the mildly confusing new logo to prove it. Jody and Bayo show off their NCAA knowledge, and - in doing so - break this podcast's (own) record for 'shortest, least informed section of a sporting show ever produced'.Putting all jokes to one side, we also take a moment to reflect on Gabriele Grunewald's passing. A truly inspirational athlete and human being; we were lucky to have her, and our thoughts are with all those close to her, and those across the athletics community affected by the news. Thank you, Gabe, for your bravery. To our delight, we'll be recording our next pod at next month's Highgate Night of the 10km PBs. Alex Yee might have departed to conquer the triathlon, but the GB squad is absolutely stacked, and the evening's always a hoot. If you're there, please do come and say 'hi'. If you've other plans, we recommend reassessing your priorities, and/or tweeting us your thoughts instead: @BackstraightB and @Claire_GThomasThanks for listening!The audio you'll hear of Gabe is from FloTrack's tribute, which you can find here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwMOn0cFInEVisit the Brave Like Gabe Foundation here: https://bravelikegabe.org/ Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

As gaffs go, we thought we'd be hard-pressed to beat missing the entire Stockholm round of the Fantasy Diamond League this season. Our rankings were decimated; our hearts broken. Our seasons, surely, can be written off just like this year's Nike Elite kit. But then Jody named an actual pacemaker as his team captain, and all bets were off. Oh, how we laughed (Jody aside...). Claire's captain? The resplendent Karsten Warholm, whose European record was the headline act of this week's Bislett Games, and one of the finest runs of the Diamond League season so far. We cast our eyes admiringly back over the last few meets, and - not so admiringly - over the IAAF's fresh look. 'World Athletics' is here, and it has the mildly confusing new logo to prove it. Jody and Bayo show off their NCAA knowledge, and - in doing so - break this podcast's (own) record for 'shortest, least informed section of a sporting show ever produced'. Putting all jokes to one side, we also take a moment to reflect on Gabriele Grunewald's passing. A truly inspirational athlete and human being; we were lucky to have her, and our thoughts are with all those close to her, and those across the athletics community affected by the news. Thank you, Gabe, for your bravery. To our delight, we'll be recording our next pod at next month's Highgate Night of the 10km PBs. Alex Yee might have departed to conquer the triathlon, but the GB squad is absolutely stacked, and the evening's always a hoot. If you're there, please do come and say 'hi'. If you've other plans, we recommend reassessing your priorities, and/or tweeting us your thoughts instead: @BackstraightB and @Claire_GThomas Thanks for listening! The audio you'll hear of Gabe is from FloTrack's tribute, which you can find here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwMOn0cFInE" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwMOn0cFInE</a> Visit the Brave Like Gabe Foundation here: <a href="https://bravelikegabe.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bravelikegabe.org/</a> Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

#47 - Fantasies, Nightmares, and Errors (So Many Errors...): If Bulls did Athletics Round Ups in China Shops

'He's got a sprinting library. In his house,' Asha Philip asserts from the physio table, as she receives treatment at the end of a long day's training. 'A bag of books,' adds Seye Ogunlewe, sat alongside. You'll have to listen to this episode to find out whether or not Steve Fudge actually owns a collection of speedy tomes, but - either way - his knowledge of the sport is certainly encyclopaedic. His meticulous mechanical coaching is matched only by his intuitive management of each of the athletes within Fudge Project London, where Claire was lucky enough to spend the day. In Loughborough, Fudge worked with Dasaolu, Gemili, Peacock, and Baptiste (amongst others), before moving to London to set up his Fudge Project, where he currently coaches Asha, Seye, Ojie Edoburun, and Imani Lanisquot. It's fair to say that this quartet have the personalities to match their talent, and we gave up trimming it all down into a normal-length episode, so here's a two-hour exploration of one of the most exciting training groups around. A big thanks to Coach Steve, Osteopath Rob, and all four athletes for their time and insights. Oh - and to you for listening. Let us know your thoughts, won't you? @Claire_GThomas &amp; @BackstraightB Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

'He's got a sprinting library. In his house,' Asha Philip asserts from the physio table, as she receives treatment at the end of a long day's training. 'A bag of books,' adds Seye Ogunlewe, sat alongside. You'll have to listen to this episode to find out whether or not Steve Fudge actually owns a collection of speedy tomes, but - either way - his knowledge of the sport is certainly encyclopaedic. His meticulous mechanical coaching is matched only by his intuitive management of each of the athletes within Fudge Project London, where Claire was lucky enough to spend the day. In Loughborough, Fudge worked with Dasaolu, Gemili, Peacock, and Baptiste (amongst others), before moving to London to set up his Fudge Project, where he currently coaches Asha, Seye, Ojie Edoburun, and Imani Lanisquot. It's fair to say that this quartet have the personalities to match their talent, and we gave up trimming it all down into a normal-length episode, so here's a two-hour exploration of one of the most exciting training groups around. A big thanks to Coach Steve, Osteopath Rob, and all four athletes for their time and insights. Oh - and to you for listening. Let us know your thoughts, won't you? @Claire_GThomas &amp; @BackstraightB Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

#36 - Freaky Fridays, Sprinting Prodigies, and Imaginary Libraries: A Day at Fudge Project London

Watching Christine Ohoruogo race was exhausting. The gun would go. She'd be in the mix. You'd not panic - knowing that her finish was her greatest strength. Another hundred metres would pass. She'd look off the pace. The butterflies would begin. You'd quell them. 'It's fine. Chrissy finishes like a train.' The athletes would exit the bend. Ohoruogo not even amongst the medals. The butterflies set loose. You'd leap from your seat. 'She's left it too late. Even Christine can't pull this off.' But, wait! With eighty or so to go, she'd start to move through the field. Are they slowing down? Is she speeding up? Who cares? Britain's finest every quarter-miler would surge through the standings, and - implausibly - produce the goods. She'd have a new international medal. You'd have a few new grey hairs. Each and every time she'd get you with one of the sport's most exhilarating pranks: waiting until the last minute to remind you just how phenomenal she was.Four Olympic gongs. Eight from outdoor World Championships. Medals at nine consecutive global championships: a feat only matched by Usain Bolt and Merlene Ottey. One of Britain's all time greats.Since announcing her retirement, the British record holder's given very, very few interviews, and so we were chuffed to bits when she sat down with Bayo for almost three hours. In this, the first of a two-part interview special, Christine discusses international netball, being 'found' by the 400 metres, her breakthrough season on the track, and the build up to her scintillating World gold in Osaka - including a powerfully honest discussion of her year-long suspension after missing a third out-of-competition drugs test. We think this is a great listen, and reckon you'll feel the same. Whatever your thoughts - let us know: @BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Watching Christine Ohoruogo race was exhausting. The gun would go. She'd be in the mix. You'd not panic - knowing that her finish was her greatest strength. Another hundred metres would pass. She'd look off the pace. The butterflies would begin. You'd quell them. 'It's fine. Chrissy finishes like a train.' The athletes would exit the bend. Ohoruogo not even amongst the medals. The butterflies set loose. You'd leap from your seat. 'She's left it too late. Even Christine can't pull this off.' But, wait! With eighty or so to go, she'd start to move through the field. Are they slowing down? Is she speeding up? Who cares? Britain's finest every quarter-miler would surge through the standings, and - implausibly - produce the goods. She'd have a new international medal. You'd have a few new grey hairs. Each and every time she'd get you with one of the sport's most exhilarating pranks: waiting until the last minute to remind you just how phenomenal she was. Four Olympic gongs. Eight from outdoor World Championships. Medals at nine consecutive global championships: a feat only matched by Usain Bolt and Merlene Ottey. One of Britain's all time greats. Since announcing her retirement, the British record holder's given very, very few interviews, and so we were chuffed to bits when she sat down with Bayo for almost three hours. In this, the first of a two-part interview special, Christine discusses international netball, being 'found' by the 400 metres, her breakthrough season on the track, and the build up to her scintillating World gold in Osaka - including a powerfully honest discussion of her year-long suspension after missing a third out-of-competition drugs test.  We think this is a great listen, and reckon you'll feel the same. Whatever your thoughts - let us know: @BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

#38 - Switching Codes, Missing Tests, and Striking Gold: Christine Ohoruogo Interview Special (Part One)

Mary Cain

We've had a lovely, restful month off. Unfortunately, the IAAF haven't. They've been busy chopping the triple jump, steeplechase, discus throw, and 200 metres from the 2020 Diamond League. Honestly. You couldn't make it up. Taylor v Claye? Meh. Noah Lyles? We've had enough charismatic sprinters. World records? Completed it, mate. Some of the best discuss-throwers in history? Throws leave people cold... right?There's that rant to have, and then there's the NY Times' interview with Mary Cain to discuss. Once one of athletics' most prodigious talents - a distance dynamo with an infectious smile and the world at her feet - Cain's stint at the Oregon Project saw her, in her own words, 'emotionally and physically abused'. She's articulate, thoughtful, emotive, and very brave in the piece, and it seemed only right we touch upon the issues raised.And - finally - some good news. Three bits of good news, in fact. Jody and Bayo have been journalising, and it is with enormous pleasure that we present to you interviews with: Tom 'friend of the pod and the face of race walking' Bosworth; Sophie '18.61 DID THAT REALLY JUST ACTUALLY HAPPEN??' McKinna; and Adam 'everyone's absolute and most adored favourite' Gemili. What a trio. Enjoy.As ever, please do let us know what you thought of the episode: we accept tweets (@BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas), Insta DMs (@backstraightboyspodcast), reviews on your podcast platform of choice, and declarations of love at athletics meets. Thanks in advance, you lovely lot.  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

We've had a lovely, restful month off. Unfortunately, the IAAF haven't. They've been busy chopping the triple jump, steeplechase, discus throw, and 200 metres from the 2020 Diamond League. Honestly. You couldn't make it up. Taylor v Claye? Meh. Noah Lyles? We've had enough charismatic sprinters. World records? Completed it, mate. Some of the best discuss-throwers in history? Throws leave people cold... right? There's that rant to have, and then there's the NY Times' interview with Mary Cain to discuss. Once one of athletics' most prodigious talents - a distance dynamo with an infectious smile and the world at her feet - Cain's stint at the Oregon Project saw her, in her own words, 'emotionally and physically abused'. She's articulate, thoughtful, emotive, and very brave in the piece, and it seemed only right we touch upon the issues raised. And - finally - some good news. Three bits of good news, in fact. Jody and Bayo have been journalising, and it is with enormous pleasure that we present to you interviews with: Tom 'friend of the pod and the face of race walking' Bosworth; Sophie '18.61 DID THAT REALLY JUST ACTUALLY HAPPEN??' McKinna; and Adam 'everyone's absolute and most adored favourite' Gemili. What a trio. Enjoy. As ever, please do let us know what you thought of the episode: we accept tweets (@BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas), Insta DMs (@backstraightboyspodcast), reviews on your podcast platform of choice, and declarations of love at athletics meets. Thanks in advance, you lovely lot.  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Mary Cain (brave), Diamond League (diminished), and some British favourites (journalised): two mega rants and three mega interviews

Claire's away 'doing rugby in France' (close enough, lads; she's been in both Portugal and West London, and is now - terrified - hitting 'publish' on an episode the boys promise needs only a cursory tidy up in edit...), leaving Jody and Bayo to look ahead to this weekend's British Championships.  Last year, we all agreed that the trials were one of our favourite events of the season: brimming with fierce competition, high-quality contests, and the very best of British athletics. Beth Dobbin's post-race interview. Dina's championship record. A women's long jump in which 6.69 didn't even get you a medal. Matthew Hudson-Smith's 400m dominance. Laura Muir's 800m cameo. Glorious weather, even. If this year's anything like as exciting as last, then we're all in for a doozy. That said, we've just been challenged to a 4x400 race by Trackastic, with Kath Merry already offering to commentate, and Beth Dobbin keen to complete our quartet, so the British Champs can only actually be the second best competition of the season, even if they are majestic... Thanks for listening. Thanks for reviewing. Thanks for following us on Twitter (@BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas) and Insta (@BackstraightBoysPodcast). Wait - what do you mean you've not yet done the last two of those?? Remedy that immediately, please. Much better. Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Claire's away 'doing rugby in France' (close enough, lads; she's been in both Portugal and West London, and is now - terrified - hitting 'publish' on an episode the boys promise needs only a cursory tidy up in edit...), leaving Jody and Bayo to look ahead to this weekend's British Championships.  Last year, we all agreed that the trials were one of our favourite events of the season: brimming with fierce competition, high-quality contests, and the very best of British athletics. Beth Dobbin's post-race interview. Dina's championship record. A women's long jump in which 6.69 didn't even get you a medal. Matthew Hudson-Smith's 400m dominance. Laura Muir's 800m cameo. Glorious weather, even. If this year's anything like as exciting as last, then we're all in for a doozy. That said, we've just been challenged to a 4x400 race by Trackastic, with Kath Merry already offering to commentate, and Beth Dobbin keen to complete our quartet, so the British Champs can only actually be the second best competition of the season, even if they are majestic... Thanks for listening. Thanks for reviewing. Thanks for following us on Twitter (@BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas) and Insta (@BackstraightBoysPodcast). Wait - what do you mean you've not yet done the last two of those?? Remedy that immediately, please. Much better. Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Best of British, Birmingham-Bound, and Doha Dust-Ups: Our British Champs Preview Pod

Bobby Clay

Perri Shakes-Drayton

As recording sessions go, this one was an epic. We sat down mid-afternoon, before gradually cancelling our evening plans and discussing athletics’ news well into the wintry night. Colin McCourt, the British Athletics Writers’ Association luncheon, and that laughably recognisable image of a ‘mystery athlete’... Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

As recording sessions go, this one was an epic. We sat down mid-afternoon, before gradually cancelling our evening plans and discussing athletics’ news well into the wintry night. Colin McCourt, the British Athletics Writers’ Association luncheon, and that laughably recognisable image of a ‘mystery athlete’... Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

#14 – Swimming, Skating, and Smorgasbords: all the big stories, feat. Bobby Clay and Perri Shakes-Drayton

Much to Claire’s delight, this week is the first episode with complete gender parity (Jody’s off sunning himself in Goa). In his absence, Bayo and the Backstraight Girl discuss December’s Euro Cross Country Championships, Farah’s shock SPOTY victory, and the resolutions they’d like to see made... Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Much to Claire’s delight, this week is the first episode with complete gender parity (Jody’s off sunning himself in Goa). In his absence, Bayo and the Backstraight Girl discuss December’s Euro Cross Country Championships, Farah’s shock SPOTY victory, and the resolutions they’d like to see made... Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

#16 – Country Crossing, Pimple Popping, and SPOTY Speculating:  A New Year of Athletics and Resolutions

Part two of our latest recording session. We talk about the things we love in athletics, and those we really don’t. Expect cameos by Whitney, Flo-Jo, Fort Minor, and a whole host of other snippets from across the history of this inspiring, infuriating, and glorious sport.... Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Part two of our latest recording session. We talk about the things we love in athletics, and those we really don’t. Expect cameos by Whitney, Flo-Jo, Fort Minor, and a whole host of other snippets from across the history of this inspiring, infuriating, and glorious sport.... Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

#15 – Brickbats, Bouquets, and a general Athletic Bonanza

We had coffee with Holly. We caught up with Guy. We enjoyed a cracking pub lunch (although appreciate that's not entirely relevant here). We screamed Tim onto a gnarly, silver-clinching 1000m personal best. We relished Shelayna's tactical nous. We marvelled at Jamie's classy, canny run. We chuckled at Maria's poker-faced demolition of a high-quality field. We witnessed yet another tactical masterclass from Marcin. We picked our jaws up off the floor after Eilidh's scorching anchor leg. We recorded a mildly hysterical, knackered wrap of the championships. We had a terrific day, all in all.At which point, our weekend of kilted Karstens, jolted Jakobs, lightning-quick Lauras, and stupid quantities of shortbread came to an end.Glasgow, thank you for having us. Dear reader, thank you for listening.Want to get in touch? @BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas on Twitter, and @BackstraightBoysPodcast on Instagram  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

We had coffee with Holly. We caught up with Guy. We enjoyed a cracking pub lunch (although appreciate that's not entirely relevant here). We screamed Tim onto a gnarly, silver-clinching 1000m personal best. We relished Shelayna's tactical nous. We marvelled at Jamie's classy, canny run. We chuckled at Maria's poker-faced demolition of a high-quality field. We witnessed yet another tactical masterclass from Marcin. We picked our jaws up off the floor after Eilidh's scorching anchor leg. We recorded a mildly hysterical, knackered wrap of the championships. We had a terrific day, all in all. At which point, our weekend of kilted Karstens, jolted Jakobs, lightning-quick Lauras, and stupid quantities of shortbread came to an end. Glasgow, thank you for having us. Dear reader, thank you for listening. Want to get in touch? @BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas on Twitter, and @BackstraightBoysPodcast on Instagram  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

#43 - Big Vaults, Tough Falls, and Raised Roofs: Gallivanting in Glasgow (Part II)

More people would watch athletics if there were less of it. More athletes would jump higher, run faster, and throw further if they were under greater pressure (the threat of not fulfilling a lifelong ambition by competing at an Olympics) to do so. More interest could be generated and clarity secured if a global ranking system were put into place. More fans would be able to enjoy field events if they took place outside of stadia. That's right; it's all change on Planet Track &amp; Field. The IAAF have announced reformations to both the Diamond League and the qualification process for Tokyo, and there is nothing we like more at Backstraight HQ than a bit of controversy. That said, it's not all doom, gloom, and rants. Far from it: there are some real merits to the proposed changes, and it's heartening to see those in charge recognising that the current Diamond League schedule is as impossible to comprehend as Jody and Bayo's Twitter handle (they still can't recall it at the first time of asking, and we've been podcasting for nearly two years now...). On Outdoor Season Eve, we sat down to dissect the announcement, briefly look over the squads heading out for the World Relay and XC Champs, and generally talk athletics. The usual, really.Would you leave us a review, please? There's stash up for grabs. Get in touch, if you fancy: @BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas on Twitter, and @BackstraightBoysPodcast on Instagram.  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

More people would watch athletics if there were less of it. More athletes would jump higher, run faster, and throw further if they were under greater pressure (the threat of not fulfilling a lifelong ambition by competing at an Olympics) to do so. More interest could be generated and clarity secured if a global ranking system were put into place. More fans would be able to enjoy field events if they took place outside of stadia. That's right; it's all change on Planet Track &amp; Field.  The IAAF have announced reformations to both the Diamond League and the qualification process for Tokyo, and there is nothing we like more at Backstraight HQ than a bit of controversy. That said, it's not all doom, gloom, and rants. Far from it: there are some real merits to the proposed changes, and it's heartening to see those in charge recognising that the current Diamond League schedule is as impossible to comprehend as Jody and Bayo's Twitter handle (they still can't recall it at the first time of asking, and we've been podcasting for nearly two years now...).  On Outdoor Season Eve, we sat down to dissect the announcement, briefly look over the squads heading out for the World Relay and XC Champs, and generally talk athletics. The usual, really. Would you leave us a review, please? There's stash up for grabs. Get in touch, if you fancy: @BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas on Twitter, and @BackstraightBoysPodcast on Instagram.  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

#44 - Fewer Events, Higher Standards, and (supposedly) Greater Entertainment: The IAAF's Big Announcement

'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times' wrote Charles Dickens, but this canonical line could well have been penned by Georgia Nicholson, Lady Bird, or any other coming-of-age protagonist. Adolescence is tough enough without international selection, age group championships, and the expectation of massively-invested athletics' fans to contend with. Being a prodigious youngster is no easy feat: just look at Jodie Williams, who had to compete with the moniker of 'Moneylegs', or the many US collegiate athletes who've buckled beneath gruelling schedules and meteoric ascents into the track and field spotlight. There are pitfalls aplenty, and it's a perilous transition to navigate.That said, it can be an exhilarating journey, if you remain healthy and happy, and your progress well managed. Wunderkids Jakob Ingebrigsten and Mondo Duplantis blew our minds in Berlin. Niamh Emerson PBs for fun, and seems as unbothered by competing against seniors as Jody and Bayo are by the fact they can't remember their own Twitter handle two years into this podcast. NCAA athletes routinely post times and marks which would not only win British Champs, but break national records in most countries. Imagine having all the promise of Imani-Lara Lansiquot, or of Katelyn Tuohy. Emerging stars are thrilling prospects.A double-edged sword, then, and one we loved discussing in this week's 'Young Guns' special (cue the 'Wham' soundtrack...). Listen out for our three guests - each major talents in their own right - who shed a lot of light on what it's like to *be* a Team GB junior with very real potential on the senior global stage. We're hugely grateful to each of them for giving us their time and insight, and to you for listening. Please keep the feedback and tweets coming - we love them: @Claire_GThomas &amp; @BackstraightB. Realistically, we can't all be prodigies, but nothing softens that blow like a stat book and retro pin badge, so keep the reviews coming if you'd like some goodies...  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times' wrote Charles Dickens, but this canonical line could well have been penned by Georgia Nicholson, Lady Bird, or any other coming-of-age protagonist. Adolescence is tough enough without international selection, age group championships, and the expectation of massively-invested athletics' fans to contend with. Being a prodigious youngster is no easy feat: just look at Jodie Williams, who had to compete with the moniker of 'Moneylegs', or the many US collegiate athletes who've buckled beneath gruelling schedules and meteoric ascents into the track and field spotlight. There are pitfalls aplenty, and it's a perilous transition to navigate. That said, it can be an exhilarating journey, if you remain healthy and happy, and your progress well managed. Wunderkids Jakob Ingebrigsten and Mondo Duplantis blew our minds in Berlin. Niamh Emerson PBs for fun, and seems as unbothered by competing against seniors as Jody and Bayo are by the fact they can't remember their own Twitter handle two years into this podcast. NCAA athletes routinely post times and marks which would not only win British Champs, but break national records in most countries. Imagine having all the promise of Imani-Lara Lansiquot, or of Katelyn Tuohy. Emerging stars are thrilling prospects. A double-edged sword, then, and one we loved discussing in this week's 'Young Guns' special (cue the 'Wham' soundtrack...). Listen out for our three guests - each major talents in their own right - who shed a lot of light on what it's like to *be* a Team GB junior with very real potential on the senior global stage.  We're hugely grateful to each of them for giving us their time and insight, and to you for listening. Please keep the feedback and tweets coming - we love them: @Claire_GThomas &amp; @BackstraightB. Realistically, we can't all be prodigies, but nothing softens that blow like a stat book and retro pin badge, so keep the reviews coming if you'd like some goodies...  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

#45 - Making Names, Crossing Ponds, and Realising Potential: Our Young Guns Special

Anyone got Samuel Tefera's number? Would someone please let him know he broke a world record in Birmingham on Saturday? He seemed to have absolutely no idea, as he stopped the clock at a handy 3:31.04... Come to think of it, there have been plenty of pinch-yourself marks, times, and series at this year's indoor meets already: Melissa Courtney's run in Karlsruhe; Holly Bradshaw's two-outings, two-4.80s, and two-wins campaign to date; Laura Muir casually setting two national records in the same race; Konstanze Klosterhalfen running (from the front, of course) into German history books twice in ten days; Sophie McKinna making it thirteenth time lucky with an absolutely enormous 17.97m put. We could go on. The British Champs showcased some of the UK's hottest talent, and the Grand Prix saw a selection scramble ahead of next month's Europeans in Glasgow - where Jody and Claire will be in attendance, podding merrily along. The women are smashing it, selection is raising a few eyebrows, and we're forgetting athlete's names again: Backstraight's well and truly back for 2019, and we hope you enjoy it. You know where to find us: @BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas #REPRESENT Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Anyone got Samuel Tefera's number? Would someone please let him know he broke a world record in Birmingham on Saturday? He seemed to have absolutely no idea, as he stopped the clock at a handy 3:31.04... Come to think of it, there have been plenty of pinch-yourself marks, times, and series at this year's indoor meets already: Melissa Courtney's run in Karlsruhe; Holly Bradshaw's two-outings, two-4.80s, and two-wins campaign to date; Laura Muir casually setting two national records in the same race; Konstanze Klosterhalfen running (from the front, of course) into German history books twice in ten days; Sophie McKinna making it thirteenth time lucky with an absolutely enormous 17.97m put. We could go on. The British Champs showcased some of the UK's hottest talent, and the Grand Prix saw a selection scramble ahead of next month's Europeans in Glasgow - where Jody and Claire will be in attendance, podding merrily along. The women are smashing it, selection is raising a few eyebrows, and we're forgetting athlete's names again: Backstraight's well and truly back for 2019, and we hope you enjoy it. You know where to find us: @BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas #REPRESENT Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

#41 - Grand Prix, Glasgow, and Girl Power: The Indoor Season So Far

Before Jessica Ennis-Hill in Beijing, there was Liz McColgan in Tokyo - winning global 10,000m gold less than a year after giving birth to Eilish. In just two years’ time, the McColgans will be back in Japan, and hoping to reach another international podium, for - despite her parents’ best efforts not to push her into the sport - Eilish has followed in her mother’s footsteps, and is now a formidable athlete in her own right. 4:01, 8:31, 14:48: these days, she is rubbing shoulders with Paula, Jo, Yvonne, Laura, and other British distance heavyweights towards the top of the all-time rankings; consistently reaching finals at major championships; and won a brave and brilliant silver over 5,000m in Berlin this summer. The road has not been smooth - there have been barriers both literal (Eilish is the Scottish 3,000 steeplechase record holder) and figurative (for years she battled with significant injuries) - but the last few seasons have been transformative, and it was fascinating to catch up with her at the end of her 2018 campaign. We hope you enjoy the listen. As ever, let us know your thoughts: @Claire_GThomas and @BackstraightB Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Before Jessica Ennis-Hill in Beijing, there was Liz McColgan in Tokyo - winning global 10,000m gold less than a year after giving birth to Eilish. In just two years’ time, the McColgans will be back in Japan, and hoping to reach another international podium, for - despite her parents’ best efforts not to push her into the sport - Eilish has followed in her mother’s footsteps, and is now a formidable athlete in her own right. 4:01, 8:31, 14:48: these days, she is rubbing shoulders with Paula, Jo, Yvonne, Laura, and other British distance heavyweights towards the top of the all-time rankings; consistently reaching finals at major championships; and won a brave and brilliant silver over 5,000m in Berlin this summer. The road has not been smooth - there have been barriers both literal (Eilish is the Scottish 3,000 steeplechase record holder) and figurative (for years she battled with significant injuries) - but the last few seasons have been transformative, and it was fascinating to catch up with her at the end of her 2018 campaign. We hope you enjoy the listen. As ever, let us know your thoughts: @Claire_GThomas and @BackstraightB Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

#33 - Sumos, Steeples, and Seizing Silver: Eilish McColgan Interview Special

All sort's been going on at Backstraight HQ the last few days: Bayo's been kicking himself, out in Rio for the Carnival, getting his time zones muddled up and missing the Glaswegian athletics action he's so desperate to live stream; Jody's been catching up with Nicola Sanders, she of indoor 400m royalty, and utterly bonkers splits; Claire's been having a quarter-life crisis, having spent 15 minutes with some of Team GB's brightest young talents, and realising - after hearing Amber Anning discussing her revision timetabling - that she's actually getting on these days; and Gabby and Will, along for the journalising ride, have been wondering just how this podcast landed media accreditation, given that at least 30% of athletes' names aren't anywhere to be found, come recording time. If Jody managed to correctly pronounce 'Sidorova' once over the course of the Championships, Claire will get a gorilla tattoo, a la Captain Fantastic, Guy Learmonth...We spoke to KJT about how she's finally getting to grips with the heptathlon (rather than just being exceptional at a few events). We heard from the dramatic, slow-mo falling horse's mouth about Niamh Emerson's desperate lunge for the line. We savoured Jakob's audacious brilliance, Laura's electric turn of pace, and Tamberi's mesmeric charisma. We took a selfie with Naomi Ogbeta, Jemma Reekie, Amber, and Niamh. We marvelled at Karsten's raw ability. We played a round of 'Aye or Gonnae No' (doesn't quite work in Claire's accent, in case you were wondering).Gracious - it's been fun. To keep you from overindulging, we've split our weekend up North into two parts. Here's the first.Enjoy it? Let us know: @BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

All sort's been going on at Backstraight HQ the last few days: Bayo's been kicking himself, out in Rio for the Carnival, getting his time zones muddled up and missing the Glaswegian athletics action he's so desperate to live stream; Jody's been catching up with Nicola Sanders, she of indoor 400m royalty, and utterly bonkers splits; Claire's been having a quarter-life crisis, having spent 15 minutes with some of Team GB's brightest young talents, and realising - after hearing Amber Anning discussing her revision timetabling - that she's actually getting on these days; and Gabby and Will, along for the journalising ride, have been wondering just how this podcast landed media accreditation, given that at least 30% of athletes' names aren't anywhere to be found, come recording time. If Jody managed to correctly pronounce 'Sidorova' once over the course of the Championships, Claire will get a gorilla tattoo, a la Captain Fantastic, Guy Learmonth... We spoke to KJT about how she's finally getting to grips with the heptathlon (rather than just being exceptional at a few events). We heard from the dramatic, slow-mo falling horse's mouth about Niamh Emerson's desperate lunge for the line. We savoured Jakob's audacious brilliance, Laura's electric turn of pace, and Tamberi's mesmeric charisma. We took a selfie with Naomi Ogbeta, Jemma Reekie, Amber, and Niamh. We marvelled at Karsten's raw ability. We played a round of 'Aye or Gonnae No' (doesn't quite work in Claire's accent, in case you were wondering). Gracious - it's been fun. To keep you from overindulging, we've split our weekend up North into two parts. Here's the first. Enjoy it? Let us know: @BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

#42 - Twice the Events, Half the Beards, and Double their Ages: Gallivanting in Glasgow (Part I)

Mondo Duplantis is making history at whim, Jemma Reekie has stepped out of Laura Muir's shadow and is eating national records for breakfast, and Jessie Knight is laughing in the face of her own previous bests. Oh, and Joshua Cheptegei just dropped a 12:51 5km on the roads in Monaco. 2020 looks set to be epic.Claire's back with the boys this week, with all of the above covered, plus plenty of shout-outs to other Backstraight favourites around the globe (we see you, Amber Anning), an update on Christian Coleman's location, and a look at Joanna Adams' appointment.We also take a moment to savour how healthy much of athletics looks right now. YES, there are troublesome shoes, disturbing revelations about top-flight coaching set-ups, and ongoing issues around clean sport and athletes with DSD, but there's lots to find exciting. There's such strength and depth out there right now, and Team GB are spoilt for choice in so many disciplines, come selection season. Plus, Andy Pozzi is healthy, for goodness' sake; let's relish that at the very least. How brilliant to see him competing consistently well once more.We've had some lovely reviews and feedback in recently. Thank you. We want to produce the sort of pod you love to listen to, so get in touch however you like: @BackstraightB and @Claire_GThomas on Twitter, @BackstraightBoysPodcast on Instagram, or via a review.That's quite enough rambling for now. If we don't shut up soon, Jemma will have broken another NR, and we'll have to re-record... As ever, thanks for stopping by xoxo Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Mondo Duplantis is making history at whim, Jemma Reekie has stepped out of Laura Muir's shadow and is eating national records for breakfast, and Jessie Knight is laughing in the face of her own previous bests. Oh, and Joshua Cheptegei just dropped a 12:51 5km on the roads in Monaco. 2020 looks set to be epic. Claire's back with the boys this week, with all of the above covered, plus plenty of shout-outs to other Backstraight favourites around the globe (we see you, Amber Anning), an update on Christian Coleman's location, and a look at Joanna Adams' appointment. We also take a moment to savour how healthy much of athletics looks right now. YES, there are troublesome shoes, disturbing revelations about top-flight coaching set-ups, and ongoing issues around clean sport and athletes with DSD, but there's lots to find exciting. There's such strength and depth out there right now, and Team GB are spoilt for choice in so many disciplines, come selection season. Plus, Andy Pozzi is healthy, for goodness' sake; let's relish that at the very least. How brilliant to see him competing consistently well once more. We've had some lovely reviews and feedback in recently. Thank you. We want to produce the sort of pod you love to listen to, so get in touch however you like: @BackstraightB and @Claire_GThomas on Twitter, @BackstraightBoysPodcast on Instagram, or via a review. That's quite enough rambling for now. If we don't shut up soon, Jemma will have broken another NR, and we'll have to re-record...  As ever, thanks for stopping by xoxo Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Jemma's Flying, Mondo's Soaring, and GB's Spoilt for 400m Talent: the Glasgow Grand Prix and a few more besides

Where do we begin..? With the empty seats? The fainting marathon runners? Alberto Salazar's ban? With the DQs that were and weren't? Or the fact that we missed experiencing Mihambo's 7.30m live because it was necessary to watch (another) Mo Farah montage?OR - how about we talk about the world records? The African fans roaring on their athletes in the distance events without stopping dancing for even a second? The women returning to the sport to earn the titles of both 'mother' and 'world-beater'? Mutaz Barshim shrugging off gravity with a series of the most implausible world leads before a rapt home crowd? The flair of Jeanette Kwakye? The chemistry between Toni Minichiello and Steve Backley? The moment Sophie McKinna threw 18.61 to qualify for a global final? The vaulters who cleared national records minutes after snapped poles? Or the fact that Dina Asher-Smith and Katarina Johnson-Thompson are both World Champions?Doha was problematic. It was frustrating. But it was also tonnes of fun, and some of the performances were staggering.Speaking of which, here's our stagger through the champs. A look back at the 2019 Worlds, in all their humid, historic glory. Enjoy.@BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Where do we begin..? With the empty seats? The fainting marathon runners? Alberto Salazar's ban? With the DQs that were and weren't? Or the fact that we missed experiencing Mihambo's 7.30m live because it was necessary to watch (another) Mo Farah montage?OR - how about we talk about the world records? The African fans roaring on their athletes in the distance events without stopping dancing for even a second? The women returning to the sport to earn the titles of both 'mother' and 'world-beater'? Mutaz Barshim shrugging off gravity with a series of the most implausible world leads before a rapt home crowd? The flair of Jeanette Kwakye? The chemistry between Toni Minichiello and Steve Backley? The moment Sophie McKinna threw 18.61 to qualify for a global final? The vaulters who cleared national records minutes after snapped poles? Or the fact that Dina Asher-Smith and Katarina Johnson-Thompson are both World Champions?Doha was problematic. It was frustrating. But it was also tonnes of fun, and some of the performances were staggering.Speaking of which, here's our stagger through the champs. A look back at the 2019 Worlds, in all their humid, historic glory. Enjoy.@BackstraightB &amp; @Claire_GThomas  Please enjoy, please subscribe and please let us know what you think on all our socials. Thanks for listening and follow us on Social Media at Twitter - (@BackstraightB) Insta - (@BackstraightBoysPodcast).

Shot Putters in the Stratosphere, Kat and Dina in the History Books, and Elephants in the Room: Our Big Doha Review Pod

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