Danny Mackey is one of my favorite coaches.
As the founding coach of the Brooks Beasts Track Club, Danny has built a team of coaches, trainers, and therapists to support his world-class athletes. From 800 meters to the marathon, Danny has a varied group of athletes, and they are excelling.
Danny takes a long-term approach, and he is patient. He is also, as the late Kenny Moore noted of the marathoner Ron Hill, “possessed of the scientific method”. Danny uses data and data points to show his athletes that they are progressing and developing.
Case in point. Consider Josh Kerr, who has worked with Danny Mackey since 2018. Josh has gone on to win silver and bronze Olympic medals, World Indoor titles at 3,000m, and a World Outdoor title at 1,500 meters.
This season, Josh Kerr predicted a WR in the mile at the London GP, a win in the mile at the Commonwealth Games, and a win in the 1,500 meters at the Ultimate Games. He was successful on all three acounts.
Last fall, in a wide-ranging interview, I asked Danny about coaching young athletes. His theme of variation is key to development and keeping injuries in check. Share this with your coaches, share this with your teams.
When Danny Mackey suggests a plan, take it seriously. And remember to have fun out there!
Special thanks to Danny Mackey and Brooks Running communications for helping set up this interview.
And remember, registration for the Brooks XC Regional Championships is open! Register here: https://www.runblogrun.com/2026/09/time-to-register-for-brooks-xc-regional-events.html?swcfpc=1
