On the weekend, up and coming 22yo New Zealand distance running star; Oli Chignell ran an incredible 7:59 to place 6th at the NZ National Championships. This result (along with two PBs in December; a 28:48 10,000m and 13:38 5,000m) signals a return to form for the ‘smooth mover’ after a quiet 2020 recuperating from a sacral stress fracture. I caught up with ‘Chiggers’ last week before the race to have a chin wag and get to know him. We chat about how his moustache is here to stay, what running is like in Dunedin, his break out domestic and European season in 2018/19. What his training is like under this coach; Chris Pilone, whether he will be solemnly based in NZ for his whole career and his Olympic aspirations. It’s a good one, have a listen! Oli brings so much excitement to the sport! Thanks for the chat Chiggers!