Meet David Trimble — 40 Marathons and Counting
When did you join Sportsworld?
I joined Sportsworld back in 2003. I’d just started running after being inspired by seeing an older man taking part in the Dublin Marathon. I remember thinking, if he can do it, maybe I can too!
What made you decide to join a running club?
Mainly to learn how to run properly and safely, and to avoid injuries. Joining Sportsworld was one of the best decisions I ever made — it gave me structure, support, and a great bunch of people to train with. I find it very hard to run on my own.
What’s your favourite club session?
There’s something special about long runs, especially when you’re out with good company and chatting the miles away.
And your favourite race distance?
The full marathon. I’ve always enjoyed the challenge and the sense of achievement that comes with crossing that finish line — especially when you’re getting your medal just minutes after thinking you’re about to die!
What’s your pre-race breakfast of choice?
Plain porridge with a little sugar and a banana — nothing fancy! It’s simple, easy on the stomach, and keeps me going.
Where’s your favourite place to train?
The Waterworks and the Phoenix Park. Great spots — peaceful, scenic, and perfect for getting into a rhythm. Both painful on the hills, great craic on the way back especially with good company. 😊
What’s been your favourite race?
The New York Marathon, without a doubt. The atmosphere is electric — the crowds, the city, the sense of occasion. It’s an experience like no other.
You’ve done quite a few marathons — how many now?
Dublin Marathon 2025 was my 40th marathon. I’ve run both the New York and London Marathons, along with 3 Belfast, 11 Dingle, 3 Longford, 1 Longford Ultra, and 20 Dublin Marathons. I found this year’s Dublin to be one of the toughest — I was frozen towards the end, but I was grand again five minutes after crossing the finish line. I love the buzz!
What’s the most interesting place you’ve run?
Again the New York Marathon stands out. It was amazing — a fabulous expo, great pre- and post-race runs, and a brilliant Irish post-race party. Running through the five boroughs is something special.
What do you do when you’re not running?
I like to stay active — I go to the gym, swim, and play paddle tennis. I also do home workouts to keep the upper body strong. Outside of fitness, I work full-time in our family business, Trimble’s Flowers and Gifts, in Nutgrove Shopping Centre, Rathfarnham.
How often do you run each week?
Usually twice — Wednesdays and Sundays — with Paul Cassiddy and Gareth McGrath, two great guys who’ve supported me big time, especially when times were tough with illness.
(Thanks lads!) I run a typical weekly mileage of about 22 miles and a little more before the Marathons. I’ll never be accused of overtraining !
Do you do much cross-training?
Yes, I swim and run twice a week, play paddle tennis, and do upper-body workouts at home most days. Most runners have no upper-body strength! It definitely keeps things balanced and helps prevent injury. I don’t overthink, I don’t overtrain, and I’m very lucky — I never get injured. Ha ha, fingers crossed!
What’s your biggest running achievement so far?
Running my personal best — 3 hours 28 minutes in the Dublin Marathon in 2016 — just six months after recovering from prostate cancer surgery. That meant so much to me, as I’d been advised not to run that year after the operation.
I had nine weeks of radiation in 2022 for recurring cancer but was lucky never to miss work or running, and I got to run both the Dingle and Dublin Marathons that year.
And your biggest non-running achievement?
Undoubtedly my family. I’ve a very supportive wife, three great sons with wonderful partners, and two super grandsons.
Who in the club do you particularly admire?
Trevor and Judith Lloyd. They’re such an inspiring couple — consistent, encouraging, and always full of positivity.
What keeps you motivated to run?
Lots of things — but mainly trying to stay fit and healthy.
What does running mean to you?
It’s really important for my mental clarity and for staying connected socially. There’s nothing like the feeling after a good run with friends — sitting down afterwards for a coffee, a chat, and a laugh.
Your advice to anyone thinking about the marathon.
Don’t overthink it! It doesn’t matter if you miss the odd training session. I usually have a good idea of my finishing time based on training. Don’t be afraid to give a high-five or a hug on the way around — you might lose a few seconds, but you’ll enjoy the race more.
And finally, what’s the dream goal?
As time moves on, I now realise how important good health is, and I’d love to run the Dublin Marathon in 2039 with my son Shane and grandson James when I’m 80, God willing. That would be something very special — after that, I’ll probably drop down to half marathons. 😊
