Michael Jackson's Last Day Was Andy's First: A Six Star Marathon Journey
In this captivating episode of DFW Running Talk, host Chris Detzel interviews Andy Wheatcroft, an inspiring 'mature runner' who completed all six World Marathon Majors. Andy's extraordinary transformation began 14 years ago in the UK when, 50 pounds overweight with a goatee that failed to hide his double chin, he could barely run 100 feet without vomiting. Motivated by his father's sudden death from a heart attack at 60 and his son's classmate battling brain cancer, Andy embarked on a journey that would change his life forever.
The interview captures the moment Andy became a 'real runner' – coincidentally the same day Michael Jackson died, when local teenagers shouted the news as he completed his first non-stop 2.1-mile run. From this humble beginning, Andy methodically tackled increasingly challenging distances, raising significant funds for charities along the way, including $20,000 for his first London Marathon.
Listeners will hear detailed accounts of each major marathon – from the emotional significance of Boston, which took him exactly 10 years to qualify for, to his spectacular fall and recovery during Tokyo. Andy shares his evolution as a runner, from struggling with basic training principles to eventually incorporating 70-mile weeks and structured long runs with strategic negative loading.
The conversation explores Andy's engineering mindset and how it applies to marathon strategy, including his unconventional A-B-C goal approach where his fastest goal was actually 'Plan C' – a mental trick that helped him achieve his Boston Qualifying time. He also reveals the emotional moments that defined his races, like placing a silk lily at the Boston bombing memorial and bursting into tears at the sight of Boylston Street.
Throughout the episode, Andy emphasizes that while the medals and accomplishments are rewarding, the true value lies in the running community – particularly Dallas's vibrant running scene and the incredible friendships formed along the way. From track workouts at 6 AM to margaritas after long runs, Andy's story demonstrates how running transcends physical fitness to become a lifestyle built around connection, challenge, and giving back through pacing opportunities.
Now semi-retired and contemplating new challenges like the emerging marathon majors in Sydney and Cape Town, Andy Wheatcroft's journey exemplifies how running can completely transform a life, one mile at a time.
Creators and Guests
Host
Chris Detzel
As a seasoned technology leader with over 20 years of experience, I specialize in building and nurturing thriving communities both running and technical
Guest
Andy Wheatcroft
Andy Wheatcroft is a Six Star Finisher who has completed all of the World Marathon Majors: Boston, New York, Chicago, London, Berlin, and Tokyo. His running journey began approximately 14 years ago in the UK when, 50 pounds overweight and motivated by his father's sudden death from a heart attack, he could barely run 100 feet without stopping. Originally from England, Andy is a former executive with Caterpillar who relocated to the United States, first to Peoria, Illinois, and later to Dallas, Texas, where he became an active member of the White Rock Running Co-op. Now semi-retired, Andy teaches at UT and holds several charity director positions while maintaining a rigorous running schedule. Throughout his marathon career, Andy has raised approximately $200,000 for various children's charities. His engineering background has informed his methodical approach to marathon training and race strategy, helping him evolve from a novice runner to achieving a Boston qualifying time after a decade of dedicated effort. Beyond his personal accomplishments, Andy is passionate about giving back to the running community through pacing marathons and half marathons, helping other runners achieve their goals. He emphasizes that while the medals are rewarding, the most valuable aspect of his running journey has been the community and friendships formed along the way. Andy continues to set new goals, including potentially running the newer Marathon Majors in Sydney and Cape Town. His story exemplifies how running can transform life physically, mentally, and socially—going from someone who viewed running as punishment to someone who embraces the sport as a central part of his identity and community.