This week we chat with Conor Kenny one of the friendliest people you could meet. Conor has an impressive 8 marathons behind him and has a sub 20 minute 5K waiting to jump out.
When did you join Sportsworld?
1998
Where do you work?
Conor Kenny & Associates which is a training, learning & professional development and HR supports company. We specialise in the hotel and hospitality industry in Ireland and the UK. www.conorkenny.com
What is your favourite club session?
I enjoy Saturday Track sessions at Tallaght. Short, intense, rewarding (and that much loved cup of coffee is around the corner)
What is your favorite race distance?
I’m probably most comfortable between 10 miles and the half marathon (assuming I’m fit) but I’ll try most distances. With 8 marathons under my feet, I’ve no desire to do No.9.
What is your favorite meal before a big race?
I love pasta and, on the morning of a longer race, porridge. Though the famous BHAA Tea & Brack is impossible to beat (but that’s after a race!)
My Favourite place to train/compete is?
The waterworks. Stunning, beautiful, moody, constantly interesting and full of challenges. To race? BHAA Winter League XC
What is your target for the next year?
To stay healthy, happy, injury free and get as fit as I can by racing lots. In racing, a good Galway Half Marathon this October
What is your best Sportsworld memory?
The famous National Half Marathon Road Trip/Weekend in 2004. 18 people, 2 houses, infinite happy and hilarious memories
What international events have you ran?
1 London Marathon 2 Half Marathons in Berlin, 9 Great North Runs in UK and (of course) La Santa International Challenge plus numerous short races in the UK
What do you like doing when you don’t run?
Writing
How/When did you start your adventure with running?
in 1996. I was unfit, overweight and thought GAA socks were okay for racing. A casual chat with Mick Dowling lured me into The Club and I’ve been stuck ever since…
Tell us about your PB’s / What is your biggest achievement?
Getting back in 2014 after 4 months out. 3 x Dublin Medals. PB’s – Marathon – 3:36. Half Marathon – 1:37. 10 mile – 71:05. 10K – 43:30. 5 mile – 34:00. 4 mile – 27:16. 5K – 20:40
How often do you run / What is your typical weekly mileage?
I aim for not less than 4 and try for 5. Mileage? Between 25-35 depending on the goal.
What would you say is the best thing about being in a Running Club?
The friends that last a lifetime. The road trips. More than anything else, the balance and perspective as well as staying healthy, cheerful and grounded.
What made you join a Running Club?
Being overweight
What was your first day at the Club like?
Great but …. I did find the simple instructions somewhat complex – “Meet us in Bushy Park………..by the tree!”
Why is running important to you?
It’s a trip switch between work and play, stress and fun. I’m doing it long enough to know that success and feeling good lie on the far side of effort. I have never regretted going to the club.
Is there anything you would like to see more of or less of at the Club?
More solo runners joining that would never predict what they get from a club way beyond running. More people getting involved and helping all the good people who take on 95% of the load.
Who is the person in the club who inspires/drives to run better?
Emily, without a shadow of doubt. She has achieved at the highest levels and balances tough with fair. I once wrote a piece on her that sums her up today “Emily Dowling didn’t just teach us how to run, she taught us how to live”
Do you do any cross training / other sports on a regular basis?
None whatsoever.;
