Richard Whitehead MBE has spent much of his life challenging other people’s expectations of what a disabled person can achieve.
Born with a disability affecting both legs and told growing up that even walking would be a challenge, Richard didn’t begin his running journey until adulthood. In 2004 he entered the New York Marathon despite never having raced before, training at night on the streets of Nottingham with sports cups fitted over his stumps. It became the starting point for an extraordinary career.
In this conversation with Georgie Ainslie, Richard explains how he went from marathon runner to elite sprinter, why being told he was too old and didn’t have a place in the British team only strengthened his resolve, and what went through his mind before delivering the performance of his life at London 2012.
But Richard is equally candid about what success hasn’t changed. He discusses the discrimination and lack of opportunity disabled people still face, why Paralympians remain underrepresented in the media, and why he refuses to let either his disability or his medals define him.
Now 50, Richard is still competing, still pushing his own limits and using the Richard Whitehead Foundation to create greater access, representation and opportunity for disabled young people.
FAQs
Who is Richard Whitehead MBE?Richard Whitehead is a British Paralympic athlete, marathon runner, world-record holder and disability campaigner. He is also the founder of the Richard Whitehead Foundation.
How did Richard Whitehead get into running?Richard entered the New York Marathon in 2004 despite never previously having raced. He describes it as a way of challenging himself and changing perceptions of disability.
How did Richard Whitehead train for his first marathon?Before having the running blades he uses today, Richard trained at night around Nottingham using sports cups fitted over his stumps.
Why was Richard Whitehead nearly left out of the Paralympic team?Richard recalls being told by the performance director that he was too old and that there wasn’t a place for him in the team. He ultimately forced his way into contention through his performances.
What does Richard Whitehead say about disability discrimination?Richard argues that disabled people remain underrepresented and continue to face barriers across sport, employment, education and wider society.
What is the Richard Whitehead Foundation?The foundation works to improve opportunities, participation and representation for disabled young people and young adults.
The Performance People podcast, in partnership with J.P. Morgan Private Bank, talks to high-performers in the world of sport and beyond, to bring defining moments, hard-earned insights and expert advice to everyday performance. New episodes every Tuesday.
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