Since first toeing the start line in 2016, Paul “Viking” Whelan has become one of Australia’s most recognisable parkrunners. Horned helmet? Check. Big smile? Always. Bigger heart? 100% Viking has chalked up 245 parkruns across 108 venues, volunteered 132 times in 17 roles, and still finds time to help first-timers scan their very first barcodes. In this feel-good chat, BILLO and Viking discuss: How a Canberra Raiders costume turned into a personal parkrun brand. Tail-walking, barcode-scanning, and the joy of giving back (53 % volunteer ratio!). Favourite memories, including a milestone 100th-different event in Queenstown, NZ. The “milestone gap” (250 ➡ 500) and why junior parkruns are needed in NSW. Dream tourism plans from Singapore to the birthplace at Bushy Park, UK. A heart-warming story of signing up a 70-year-old mid-vent. Whether you’re a seasoned tourist or considering your first 5K, Viking’s energy will have you lacing up before the outro rolls. QUICK STATS • 245 runs │ PB 34:16 │ Wilson Index 34 • 132 volunteer credits │ 76 venues │ 17 roles • Longest tourist streak 30 │ Avg. finish #139 TIMESTAMPS 00:00  Welcome & stat rundown 04:24  Birth of the helmet tradition 10:40  Favourite volunteer roles 14:32  Milestones & junior parkrun chat 20:34  Queenstown milestone memory 24:26  Dream destinations 30:13  Volunteer-shortage discussion 43:55  What parkrun adds to life 55:22  Rapid-fire wrap-up CALL TO ACTIONS  Got a parkrun tale of your own? Email: 5kyarns.podcast@gmail.com to be a future guest.  If you enjoyed the show, rate & review — it helps other barcodes find us!