When did you join Sportsworld?

April 2016

Where do you work?

I work as a Project Manager in an Irish company called PM Group, based in Tallaght.

What is your favourite club session?

My favourite session is the fartleg loop in Bushy Park closely followed by a Saturday morning cross country session in Kiltipper ( “field of screams”) in the depths of winter 

What is your favourite race distance?

I think on the road, it is a 10 km race and in the  cross country races – 7km

What is your favourite meal before a big race?

Porridge and honey

My Favourite place to train

I have no favourite really. I like the Waterworks and up around the Magazine Fort in the Phoenix Park (with the skylarks overhead). I also like running by the coast in south Dublin  

What’s your favourite race?

My first race ever was the Terenure 5 mile race in 2012 that triggered a love of racing. However, my favourite is the National cross country race because of the great atmosphere and the comraderie of the Sportsworld’s teams

What is your target for the next year?

Just to keep enjoying running.

What international events have you ran?

I have run the International racing challenge in Lanzarote for 3 years. I also ran a Christmas Parkrun in Germany with champagne and marzipan cake at the finish. That was a nice touch.

I also have ran in Bere Island a few times (Midsummer Race and a Parkrun)  J                 

Where’s the most interesting place you have run?

I think it must be Gili Air (an island off Bali) with a beautiful beach running along its 5km circumference, at sunset or sunrise. 

I travel a lot with work so I always bring my gear and go for a touristy run around various cities. I love cities with a waterfront

Where’s the most interesting place you’ve been?      (Doesn’t have to be running related)    

I think Indonesia and Egypt – mainly for the people I met                                         

What do you like doing when you don’t run? (hobbies/past times)

I took up boxercise with Mick Dowling two years ago when I had a foot injury and kept it going . I find it compliments the running. I love soccer (Republic of Ireland (all levels), St Patricks Athletic (occasionally) and of course the soon to be announced 2020 PL champions -Liverpool). I had to give up five aside last year as I was getting too many injuries .

I also try to do core training in the club once a week. I can’t understand why others don’t join in and use the great free facilities in the club.

I also fly fish on the River Slaney when I get time.

I like going to the cinema and reading also

How/When did you start your adventure with running?

I started running in 2010 to assist with my tennis and 5 a side football. After a while the tennis slipped down the pecking order into insignificance

Tell us about your PB’s / What is your biggest achievement?

5km: 19.46 (Docklands 5k 2019)

10km: 41.03  (South Dublin 10 k, Clondalkin 2019)

Half: 1.36 (Dublin Race Series Half Marathon 2018)

Marathon: 3.44 (Dublin Marathon 2012- one and only Marathon)

What is your biggest non-running related achievement?

Too modest to say J

How often do you run / What is your typical weekly mileage?

4-5 times a week, maybe 30-35 miles a week… I don’t really measure

What motivates you? Running or otherwise

I love being out in the open air, being with friends and letting the endorphins run through

What would you say is the best thing about being in a Running Club?

I like that we all have a simple common interest and the genuine comraderie of the other members in just getting out there to run 

What made you join a Running Club?

I ran with a few people once and enjoyed the chat over the miles (it went so quick) rather than slogging on my own. I remember Eoin O’Brien mentioning  Sportsworld many times before I took the plunge in joining. I haven’t looked back since.

Why is running important to you?

I find it great for the body and the head. It is a great stress reliever apart from the pre-racing nerves

Is there anything you would like to see more of or less of at the Club?

Maybe some more warm up/down exercises before/after training

Who is the person in the club who inspires/drives to run better?

 There are too many to mention. Most people in the club in their own little way inspire me.

I am genuinely amazed at the effort, encouragement and enthusiasm provided by our coaches Myles and Emily. 

I also think that all the committee members including the Chairperson, Michael, are remarkable in their committment to making the club better and better

Do you do any cross training / other sports on a regular basis?

The boxercise and a bit of core training, as above. I sea swim in the summer

Tell us something that no one in the club knows about you!?

I shall be leaving the country to take up work in Denmark at the end of May for about two years… but I plan to be back regularly and also compete in the Masters cross country. Will miss most of you J

When did you join Sportsworld?

Winter 2011

Where do you work?

National Transport Authority

What is your favourite club session?

800m repeats on grass in summer, especially just after the grass has been cut.

What is your favourite race distance?

1500

What is your favourite meal before a big race?

I don’t run many long races so the notion of a meal before a race is new. All of the long races that I have run were morning races so I guess porridge and banana would be the usual choice.

My Favourite place to train

Phoenix Park for long runs, Bushy Park for short sessions.

What’s your favourite race?

This is a difficult one so let’s say the beach 5k race in Lanzarote although Rathfarnham 5k and cross country are not far behind.

What is your target for the next year?

Hopefully, regain some speed.

What international events have you ran?

3 years going to Lanzarote for the international running challenge, a half marathon in Torrevieja, Spain, a 5km in Boston and a park run in London.

Where’s the most interesting place you have run?

Lanzarote and the Dublin Mountains.

Where’s the most interesting place you’ve been? (Doesn’t have to be running related)

Japan has to be top of the list. Culture and food being the highlights.

What do you like doing when you don’t run? (hobbies/past times)

A long list of things: cycling, swimming, learning music, reading the odd book.

How/When did you start your adventure with running?
I started running in autumn 2011, then ran the Rathfarnham 5k. Shortly afterwards I joined Sportsworld.

Tell us about your PB’s/ what is your biggest achievement?

Times: Around 18:30 for a 5km in recent years. 3:14 for my first marathon last year. Achievements: 3rd in age group for Dublin and Leinster 10-mile championship races.

Learning to swim (from having a total fear of being in open water) and then completing a triathlon.

How often do you run / What is your typical weekly mileage?

I run 4-6 days a week, and the mileage would be 50-80km.

What motivates you? Running or otherwise

A desire to be fit and healthy. Sometimes you dream of fast times so that helps with motivation to train.

What would you say is the best thing about being in a Running Club?

No one specific thing. The mixture of a training routine, courses, people, occasional races is what attracts me. The social aspect of meeting up for the club sessions is an important factor.

What made you join a Running Club?

Initially for the structured training that being in a club promises along with the possibility of being in the company of better runners might also help to improve times.

Why is running important to you?

A belief that running helps with getting a good work / life balance and keeping fit. Every run gives you that sense of achievement.

Who is the person in the club who inspires/drives to run better?

It would be unfair to call out one individual. Hats off to management for their unselfish giving of time. A fair amount of inspiration comes from the runners around me.

Do you do any cross-training / other sports on a regular basis?

Strength and conditioning on Mondays and Wednesdays. I usually cycle and swim a bit but not recently.

Is there anything you would like to see more of or less of at the Club?

Relay races and the odd visit to the beach at Bull Island.

When did you join Sportsworld?

I went to the club for a few sessions in June 2017 and had planned to return after a summer away travelling in South America but due to an unfortunate fall on one of my hiking escapades in Columbia I returned with a badly broken arm so running was off the cards for awhile! I didn’t want to join until I had regained a bit of fitness so properly joined up in April 2019 and haven’t looked back since! 

Where do you work?

 I’m one of the many primary school teachers in the club! I work in a school in Glasnevin. I cycle out every morning to avoid being stuck in traffic and as well as avoiding all the road-rage filled drivers, also find it to be good cross training.

What is your favourite club session?

I think my favourite session is hills and sprints in Bushy Park. There’s something so satisfying about pushing (dragging) yourself up the hill and finishing with a burst of speed on the grass. The adrenaline rush of finishing the session is incredible and I always feel great afterwards. Saying that, I’m usually buzzing after most sessions and having Emily and Myles cheering you on at every turn is a great motivator. I also really like the fartlek session in Bushy during the summer. Sitting here (in lockdown) wistfully thinking of all the sessions is making me miss them all the more!

What is your favourite race distance?

I find this question tricky as I’ve actually only really ran in a handful of road races. I think my favourite distance might be 5 miles but then again that might just be because it’s the race I’ve ran most recently! I also like 5k & 10k distances. For XC races, the shorter the better so 4k would be my distance of choice!

What is your favourite meal before a big race?

Very boring answer here as I usually just have porridge with some fruit before short distance races and throw in half a bagel with peanut butter and banana if it’s a longer race.

My Favourite place to train

I love running in Phoenix Park; I never realised how big the park was until I started running there. Nothing lovelier than spotting a few deer ambling around as you’re running on by! I particularly enjoy the Sunday morning club runs in the park. They’re a great opportunity to catch up with people properly and the coffee and breakfast post run makes it all the nicer!

What’s your favourite race?

I really enjoyed the Raheny 5 mile run in January pacing with my good pal Padraig & finishing within an (all-important) second of each other! Also loved running in the club 5 mile last year. Running side by side with the girls for the first few km was fab and it felt like such an honour to be running in a club race with so much incredible support every step of the way!

What is your target for the next year?

I would love to get a sub 18 5k or close to it. This goal doesn’t seem within reach anytime soon with everything that’s going on at the moment but someday hopefully!

Where’s the most interesting place you have run?

My travels in Central America involved a few interesting running experiences. Doing intervals though the cobbled, narrow and uneven streets of Guatemala with the bemused locals shouting cheers of encouragement as I ran past was a unique experience. Running up and down the little island of Caye Caulker in Belize to get some form of ‘long run’ in was another somewhat unusual, but enjoyable experience. The motto of this little island is ‘Go Slow’ and the locals take it very seriously as this was (jovially) shouted at me quite frequently as I ran!

Where’s the most interesting place you’ve been? (Doesn’t have to be running related)                                    

While living in Abu Dhabi for a few years, I was lucky enough to be able to travel a good bit. The most interesting place that stands out for me is travelling to Jordan where one of my highlights was covering myself in the renowned, seemingly magical mud (I’ve been glowing ever since!) before taking all the standard tourist snaps as we floated on the dead sea. An incredible experience. From here we crossed over to Israel by bus; another amazing place to explore and we also squeezed in a day trip to Bethlehem!

What do you like doing when you don’t run? (hobbies/past times)

Running really is really my main hobby! I like reading in my down time and I enjoy all things food so spend a lot of time eating out with friends with a few night out thrown in! As a teacher, I’m lucky enough to be able to go on longer trips in the summers and I love experiencing new cultures and exploring different places.

How/When did you start your adventure with running?

In 2016 I spent a week in Connemara at the Gaeltacht with a friend of mine who had recently taken up running. I still remember being quite reluctant to join her for a morning jog. Although I was always into fitness and went to the gym regularly enough, I was convinced that running just wasn’t ‘my thing!’ I surprised myself by quite enjoying it and ended up joining her every morning that week. The stunning scenery and sunny weather helped.  After that I kept up running leisurely a couple of times a week and then I convinced my housemates to join me in training for the Cork half marathon. I was absolutely elated to cross the finish line in 1:42 and I ventured down to Sportsworld a couple of weeks later! Lots of my friends were surprised when I took to running so enthusiastically because they’d always tried to convince me to join them but I was always adamant I just wasn’t a runner. Most of them have since abandoned running and laugh at how obsessed I’ve become. I must admit I’ve shocked myself!

Tell us about your PB’s / What is your biggest achievement?

5K – 18:24 (Docklands 2019)

10K – 38:11 (K-Club 10k 2019) The course was 100m short so not sure if I should count it but I’m going to anyway!

5 mile – 29:21 (Ranheny 2020)

Half Marathon: 1:30:37 (Dublin Half Marathon 2018)

I would also like to shave some time off my half marathon whenever races go ahead again!

Marathon: 3:22:17 (Dublin 2018)

My biggest running achievement personally is completing the Dublin marathon as it meant a lot to me, running it in memory of my dad and raising money for charity at the same time. Other than that, my biggest running achievements are probably all cross country related! My first XC medal, a team bronze in the Dublin Novice, after an eventful race where I collided with another runner and caused us both to fall mid race, was probably the one I was the proudest of as it was my first cross country race and both the sense of camaraderie & the adrenaline buzz were at an all time high.

How often do you run / What is your typical weekly mileage?

Just checked my Garmin app as I haven’t yet succumbed to Strava and on average I run round 50/60k a week, give or take.

What would you say is the best thing about being in a Running Club?

There are lots of great things about being in a running club, hard to pick just one! The friendships made, the comradeship, support, advice and friendly competition to name a few! Being around other runners challenges and inspires you to train harder and become a better runner and they give you the boost you need to keep going when you think you can’t, as was the case in more than one XC race for me! I genuinely feel lucky to be part of such a lovely, supportive community of runners.

What made you join a Running Club?

I was on such a high after my half marathon that I decided I wanted to keep up my running routine. Thought I would be more likely to do this if I was in a club and I really liked the idea of having a group of people to run with. I never anticipated enjoying it as much though!

Why is running important to you?

I’m honestly still surprised at how running has become such a big part of my life and how it’s firmly fixed in my daily and weekly routine.

I love how no matter what sort of day I’ve had, I always, inevitably feel better after a good (or not so good) run. Any worry or stress melts away, and a few km’s into an easy run, I generally feel a wave of contentment. I love the clear-headed, calmness that follows a hard run and the endorphins that you’re left with after a particularly tough session along with a great sense of accomplishment.

Who is the person in the club who inspires/drives to run better?

There are lots of people in the club who inspire me & motivate me to do better but of course we would be lost without Emily and Myles. Their commitment and dedication to the club and their sheer enthusiasm for running are incredible and this alone inspires me to run harder and do better! Their unwavering support and encouragement during sessions and races motivates me to persevere and push though any wall of pain I’m experiencing!

When did you join Sportsworld?

2006 (I think!)

Where do you work?

Alexandra College – Junior & Senior school.

What is your favourite club session?

Hills & Sprints

What is your favourite race distance?

5K

What is your favourite meal before a big race?

Banana & almond butter on a rice cake & a cup of sweet coffee! Fighter Fuel!

My Favourite place to train

The roads around Terenure, Bushy Park, and also the well-trodden stretches around my own locality in Dublin!

What’s your favourite race?

Hhhhhmmmmm………..maybe a 4K cross country.

What is your target for the next year?

To keep training and maintain my fitness and strength. Everything else will be a bonus!

What international events have you ran?

A few years ago I travelled to Berlin with the club and ran a half marathon. A brilliant experience. The support was incredible from beginning to end.

Where’s the most interesting place you have run?

Maybe Hong Kong! I was fortunate enough to travel there a few years ago with work, and I ran around each day catching my bearings and just taking it all in.

Where’s the most interesting place you’ve been? (Doesn’t have to be running related)  

Maybe Santiago de Compostela in Northern Spain. I arrived there a few years ago after walking the Camino! It was a thrilling experience to see so many back-packers, walkers and tourists from all corners of the world descend upon this historical city, all sharing the one common goal – To reach Santiago.                    

What do you like doing when you don’t run? (hobbies/past times)

Write (sometimes!), read (sometimes…..I should read more), garden (a newfound interest), clean and tidy (increased in recent weeks to occupy time at home!), listen to music and podcasts, catch up with friends and family (most recently on Zoom) and of course, apply my energies to my recent role on the club newsletter team! ‘This or That’ quiz anyone?!

How/When did you start your adventure with running?

2002. It all started in UCC! I joined the Athletics club in college and I have never not run since!

Tell us about your PB’s / What is your biggest achievement?

5k – Rathfarnham 5k 2018 – 20 mins 04secs

Half marathon – Berlin 2008 (Where does the time go?!!) –  87mins 32secs

2020 – Sportsworld won Meet & Train! Yeeeeeeeeey!!

What is your biggest non-running related achievement?

I think for me it was being cast as ‘Jo’ in Little Women at the Gate Theatre in Dublin. It was my first big acting break after completing my actor training. Definitely a significant moment for me. I was walking the Camino when I got the news. One of those moments I will never forget!

How often do you run / What is your typical weekly mileage?

I actually run most days, but when I say run, not intensely every day! I train hard on Tuesday and Thursday with the club, and every other day I go for longer runs and also do some gym work.

What motivates you? Running or otherwise

Knowing that I always feel better and stronger having gone out for a run. I really miss it when I don’t.

This is probably typical of me………..!

What would you say is the best thing about being in a Running Club?

The huge progress you can make in terms of your stamina and fitness levels by attending the training sessions each week. I definitely push myself more when I am running with people, and when I have Emily and Myles watching and sharing encouraging words along the way!

And definitely the support and encouragement we give to one another during sessions. We’re all feeling the pain!

What made you join a Running Club?

I never really excelled in school sports growing up. Football, basketball and swimming were quite popular, but I didn’t really take to them! I never really found my sporting tribe………until I spotted the Athletics Club table during the ‘Clubs & Societies’ day in college. Choirs sang and bright lights shone – I had arrived! “Where do I sign?!” I enthusiastically exclaimed as I clicked my heels mid-air! I’ve been on a running high ever since!

Why is running important to you?

I just know the benefits it brings to my life, both internally and externally. It really is top priority. And also, so simple. A pair of runners, and ideally some other running attire(!) and that’s all you need. You can run anywhere, anytime and any distance. It really is a great hobby to have; particularly these days. It is definitely helping me.

Is there anything you would like to see more of or less of at the Club?

I really can’t think of anything – Is it 37 years now ‘Sportsworld’ are in existence – Incredible!

Who is the person in the club who inspires/drives to run better?

Both Emily and Myles. Their encouragement always spurs me to train hard and to run hard, both at training and at races. I want to do well for them! Because they give so much of their time and energy to the club, and all with a wonderful sense of humour and a genuine love for what they do. It really is inspiring to see, week in, week out. Thank you!

Do you do any cross training / other sports on a regular basis?

Not at the moment. I attend my local gym and use some machines there to vary my training during the week, but running is my main activity!

Tell us something that no one in the club knows about you!?

Oh genie! What to say?! I was in a girl group when I was in Transition Year, and we got to go on ‘Den TV’ and be interviewed! Would you believe, I performed a small rap! I was soooooooo cool. The lyrics went something like this……”Never nevermore will I see your face, will I feel your grace, oh it’s such a bad case……..” Yes, the ole rhyming took top priority as you can see!

Proof……

So cool. Yes, you can have my autograph.

We’ll arrange an orderly queue when back training.

Full Name

Colum Roche

When did you join Sportsworld?

Nov 2018

Where do you work?

I recently moved to a new role as Head of Internal Audit for an Investment Management company. Before this I worked in Deloitte.

What is your favourite club session?

You can’t beat the summer speed sessions on the grass in Bushy with a mixture of 1600,800 and 400 metres!

What is your favourite race distance?

Thats a tough one. I’ve tried them all apart from sprints. I’d say 5km is my most tried and tested but I enjoy a good half marathon too!

What is your favourite meal before a big race?

Carb overloading on some pasta.

My Favourite place to train

I’m originally from Kilkenny so I do always love going back doing some sessions around my parents house in Stoneyford. I always knew there was hills surrounding me but its not until this 2km radius came in that I noticed they are in every possible direction! Because of this I feel sessions at home make it a lot easier when I go back to some flat ground!

What’s your favourite race?

Probably the Dublin City Marathon. I’ve done it twice now and I haven’t been able to recreate that buzz anywhere else!

What is your target for the next year?

Well originally I had set my target at some 5k, 10k or half pbs as I was due to get married in May this year. I had picked up a vibe from my fiancé, Claire that her having to listen to me go on about my training for another marathon in the year of our wedding mightn’t be a good idea! Unfortunately our wedding got pushed back a year because of the current lockdown and my training has ramped up so I’m thinking I might a marathon in the autumn..assuming they happen!

What international events have you ran?

I actually have never done a race abroad which is odd because I have been to a lot of places! Better put that on the bucket list!               

Where’s the most interesting place you have run?

I always love going for a run when I am abroad and getting the location tagged on my Garmin. This year I got the chance to run around the old city of Jerusalem which was very cool but I think overall its probably the Great Wall of China. I went on a tour there and once I got up the wall I realised it would be a prime place for a challenging run. I wasn’t that well prepared but I got about 4km in and definitely want to go back and do it properly! Maybe that Great Wall Marathon (don’t tell Claire!)

Where’s the most interesting place you’ve been?      (Doesn’t have to be running related)                                               

China. Its a world apart from normality but it was amazing to see!

What do you like doing when you don’t run? (hobbies/past times)

I love to watch sport and head to games when I can. On the soccer side I follow Liverpool and my second team Sheffield Wednesday (inherited from my Dad). Love a good hurling game too be it Kilkenny or following the club championship. Other than that I like to hangout with friends and family.

How/When did you start your adventure with running?

Mid 2012. I took it up to relieve some stress and help my mental health. Its one of the best things I ever did and I really find when you run it allows you to completely tune out of the day to day!  

Tell us about your PB’s / What is your biggest achievement?

5km: 18.53 (RAS UCD 2019)

10km: 42.30  (Stoneyford 10k, 2018))

Half: 1.33 (Cork Half Marathon 2019)

Marathon: 3.34 (Dublin Marathon 2019)

3 of these were last year in my first full year in Sportsworld!

What is your biggest non-running related achievement?

Does getting a silver medal in the 2^nd class 100m sports day count? If not, I guess I feel I’ve achieved a lot in my career in the past few years.

How often do you run / What is your typical weekly mileage?

3-4 times a week ranging from 25-45km generally..maybe a bit more around marathon season

What motivates you? Running or otherwise

I just really enjoy it and I feel it keeps me physically and mentally healthy!

What would you say is the best thing about being in a Running Club?

Definitely the group training. They motivate you to keep going even though in normal circumstances you’d give up a long time before!

What made you join a Running Club?

I didnt feel I was meeting my potential and just wanted to try something different. I don’t think I’ll ever go back to not being in a club.

Why is running important to you?

To clear my head and  keep me healthy!

Is there anything you would like to see more of or less of at the Club?

Maybe some more internal competitions!

Who is the person in the club who inspires/drives to run better?

 I joined the club the same time as Cian Buckley and are (of were!) about the same level. He has been able to drive on and get some really good PBs so I want to try keep the pace. I will also say that I had become accustomed to following Padraig Looby and hanging on to his pace at all costs. Its definitely made me a stronger runner!

Do you do any cross training / other sports on a regular basis?

I do the gym a bit.. every now and then.

Tell us something that no one in the club knows about you!?

Before my parents met, my father was a priest and my mother was a nun. They both then left their orders  and got married and the rest is history!

Full Name

James Dawson

When did you join Sportsworld?

I officially joined Sportsworld in May 19 after the Terenure 5 mile event. I still remember trying to keep up with Brian who was the 35-minute pacer on the day. I’m happy to say I nearly took 3 minutes off that time when I competed in the Raheny 5 mile in January!

Where do you work?

I work in Uniphar as a Financial Accountant (bean counter)

What is your favourite club session?

When I started running in the summer of 2019, Bushy Park was such a great setting for all the various sessions. Although over the winter, I thoroughly enjoyed the long runs in Phoenix Park. Except when Ger got us lost half way through the route one morning (sorry Ger!)

What is your favourite race distance?

Tough to answer at the moment but I would say I have enjoyed the 10km races more than other race distances.

It’s a good test to see how long you can push yourself to the limit.

Although I would like to test myself at the track events (200m / 400m) if there are any left after this pandemic.

What is your favourite meal before a big race?

Usually the night before a race, I would have some chicken, quinoa and black beans. In the morning I don’t tend to have much, maybe a banana with some beetroot juice.

What’s your favourite race?

Of all the races so far, I would say the Docklands 5k was my favourite race. I was new to the club, so it was a great race to meet other Sportsworlders. The race itself was a bit of a disappointment as I was hoping to break sub 20 for the first time but that was quickly forgotten once I stepped into The Ferryman!

Outside of races with Sportsworld, The Galway Bay 10km was a fantastic event. Sure who wouldn’t want to be blown about on the scenic Nimmo pier!

What is your target for the next year?

My targets have sort of been put to one side with everything that is going on but I would be thrilled if I broke 19 minutes in a 5k and sub 40 in a 10k in 2020.

Also, all going well with marathon training and staying injury free I would try and set myself a target of 3:15.

What international events have you ran?

No major international events but I did a parkrun in a small town called Port Macquarie in Eastern Australia.

What do you like doing when you don’t run? (hobbies/past times)

Previously, I played a lot of football between 5 a side and 11 a side. I played for a team called Spartak Dynamo (not a Russian team surprisingly) based in Marley Park. However, at the moment it’s mostly running, swimming and I’m in the middle of golf lessons to get a few trips out of work in the summer (free round of golf, great value for a Cavan man)

I’ve recently purchased an acoustic guitar from Sadanands great music store so I’m teaching myself a few tunes. Anyone getting married soon PM me for quotes.

How/When did you start your adventure with running?

I got into running properly back in late 2015 after I did the Frank Duffy 10 mile. In April 2016, I registered for the DM. It’s safe to say trying to juggle football with Marathon training was a huge mistake.

After that it was mostly parkruns. I originally came down to the club in the summer of 2018 to reignite my running career. However, I decided to give football another season. After getting frustrated with google maps trying to find away grounds I decided to hang up the boots and swap them for cross country spikes instead. It was about this time in the pic below when I knew I had screwed up my first XC race. It was certainly a baptism of fire but I’ve enjoyed the few races since (I think)

Tell us about your PB’s / What is your biggest achievement?

5km – 19:41

10km – 41:57

21km – 1:30:54

42km – 4:20 something when I was very naïve with my marathon training!

I bagged myself a new 20-minute PB in the recent Bohermeen half marathon. It was my first half marathon since 2017 and I was absolutely thrilled to see the tough winter sessions pay off.

What is your biggest non-running related achievement?

I would say becoming a fully qualified ACA accountant. Between all the commuting down from Cavan to Dublin for lectures and finding the energy to study after work. It was definitely worth it in the end.

My parents put in so much hard graft over the years on our dairy farm to provide the funds for my education, so I owe them a lot in terms of this.

How often do you run / What is your typical weekly mileage?

On a normal week I do 50 – 60 km but that has dropped down considerably over the past few weeks!

What motivates you? Running or otherwise

I always want a new PB in every event I enter now. I think I’ve set new PBs in every competitive race since I joined the club which is all down to the coaching of Emily and Myles. I know I can keep improving and that is helping me to keep pushing and work even harder.

What would you say is the best thing about being in a Running Club?

Definitely meeting new people. Everyone was very welcoming when I joined and I’ve got to know the majority of people over the past year. The bake off was also very appreciated.

Why is running important to you?

The health benefits I’ve seen since joining the club have been massive. My energy throughout the day is always at a high level, I never feel the need for a cheeky snooze after work! I always feel active and that’s been a huge thing for me.

Also, my mental health has also benefited greatly. I’ve read articles that running helps your mind and body and I couldn’t disagree with that at all. It’s up there with the best things I’ve decided to take up during my life.

Who is the person in the club who inspires/drives to run better?

Without Myles and Emily there shouting (I mean encouraging) I probably would of gave up a long time ago. I always look back to the XC in Avondale which was completely out of my zone in terms of pace, when Myles on the sideline keeping me motivated while I was fighting not to come last. I’ve learnt it’s not all about winning (although that is nice)

The commitment they show to travel all around the country to support us is nothing short of incredible and I owe all my PBs to them.

Tell us something that no one in the club knows about you!?

I was Ulster U21 champion in table tennis and played county in the wonderful sport of pool.

Where do you work?

I work in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, based in St Stephen’s Green.

How/When did you start your adventure with running & why?

I ran a lot as a kid, with my club Fethard AC in Tipperary, however as a teenager and into my 20s I mainly played team sports; football, camogie and soccer, I even took up rugby for a while, although my career ended with a trip to A&E and split open forehead! I still tipped away with the odd 5k and even tagged along to an odd sportsword session with my sister. In the summer 2018, I got more into running more and was a more consistent trainer with the club.

What is your favourite club session?

I love Saturday mornings at the track in Tallaght, good speedy sessions. I also love the hills and sprints. I generally enjoy the sessions that involve stopping for a rest after short distances!

Tell us about your PB’s?

I’ll probably be the only club member to talk about sprint PBs, but here goes:

200m: 28.01

400m: 64.25

1500: 5.38

5k: 21.26

What is your favourite race distance?

I love sprinting, so the 200m, but don’t really train for it. I think I would like to do more 800 and 1500 and see if I can improve my time for them

What is your favourite meal before a big race?

As my roomies in Lanza will tell you, I make a special porridge before morning races with egg white, banana and berries. It’s nicer than it sounds, I swear! I still haven’t nailed my eating before afternoon and evening races, I usually have a sandwich or toast, but it’s not ideal.

My favourite place to train is?

Bushy in the summer is blissful.

What is your target for this year?

This is a very difficult question to answer at the moment, as the year is so uncertain (during Covid-19 lockdown for readers in the future). Running a race in 2020 would be great! I’d like to build up stamina for the 800m and 1500m but I don’t really have a time in mind for them.

How often do you run / What is your typical weekly mileage?

Just did a quick scan of my strava to check! I usually run around 30k to 40k a week. I try to make the all the club sessions, then do what I consider a long run on Sundays, which is a lot shorter than what others consider long.

What is your best Sportsworld memory?

It’s hard to look past Lanzarote last year for memories and craic! I got to know so many people that week and was lucky enough to be sharing an apartment with 5 sportsworld legends. I think my performance in the beer mile was my proudest moment of my sporting career to date!

What would you say is the best thing about being in a Running Club?

Training consistently and pushing myself is really important for me. I train with a group of girls that are all in or around the same standard, and this really pushes me on in every session and race.

The team spirit is very important for me as well. Having spent most of my life playing team sports, the friendships and craic that go along with sport is one of the main reasons I get involved with teams and this running club is no different. Whether it’s the chats at training, the breakfast on weekend mornings or trips to races, I really enjoy the social side of the club and getting to know new people.

Where’s the most interesting place you’ve been? (Doesn’t have to be running related)

I’m lucky enough to get to travel a lot with my job, particularly to Africa. I think Mozambique was the most interesting trip. I spent a lot of time in rural villages in the north of the country and met some great characters! The landscape is spectacular there too, a lot greener than I expected.

What international events have you ran?

I ran the Ethiopian equivalent of the mini marathon last year, it was called the UN Women First 5k. It was a really fantastic experience, the positivity and colour was breathtaking. I even got to meet a few Ethiopian running giants.

Where’s the most interesting place you have run?

I ran on the Ethiopian cross country course in Addis Ababa, it was pretty cool to think about some of the races that took place there! I also ran in Meskel square, which is a sight for public gatherings in Addis Ababa, but is mainly used for running. Runners can be seen running lengths of tiered steps all day, particularly in the early morning. Apparently a number of olympians started out here. It’s also at 2,000m altitude so it could be considered high altitude training, but I never felt the EPO hit when I got back to sea level.

What do you like doing when you don’t run? (hobbies/past times)

Up until last year I played football and my boots aren’t fully hung up! I also enjoy the gym, yoga and pilates. I love watching most sports, particularly GAA, rugby and soccer. Being from Tipperary I spend a lot of my summer going to hurling matches and luckily we get a few outings in Croke Park every year. I also like to follow politics and current affairs.

What is your biggest non-running related achievement?

I played football for Tipperary- although never won anything so I’m not sure it is much of an achievement! I won a couple of county medals in both camogie and football with my club at home. I played a lot of soccer growing up (although those who saw my performance in Lanza may not believe me!) and won a few league medals.

Is there anything you would like to see more of or less of at the Club?

More sprinting, but that’s a very selfish request!

Who is the person in the club who inspires/drives to run better?

The commitment of Emily and Myles couldn’t but inspire you, standing out in all weathers to train us and traveling all around Ireland to races is unbelievable commitment!

As someone who played sport all my life and even ran when I was younger, seeing people take up running in later life is incredibly inspiring. To go from no sport until your 30s and then win a cross country medal is no mean feat. Also people who battle back after injuries and stay positive.

Tell us something that no one in the club knows about you!?

Three family members have run with sportsworld!

When did you join Sportsworld?

February 2019

Where do you work?

I originally worked as a Financial Consultant in Madrid/Barcelona, but in recent years I work in Grand Canal Dock for Equifax as a Software Engineer.

How/When did you start your adventure with running & why?

Like many Irish people, I’d given up on sport (rugby was my poison) at the age of 18 and managed to drink and smoke my way through my 20’s.

My 29th birthday came in late December 2018, mid pint season, and I remember promising to myself that drunken night that once the silly season was over and I made it through January (stretching the pennies), I’d sign up for a marathon before I turned 30th.

Nearly two months later, I found myself down by the dodder explaining to Myles that I had 12 weeks to train for the Prague City Marathon in early May. To his credit he didn’t completely dismiss me and gave me some solid advice that saw me through to the starting line. 

What was your first day at the Club like?

I arrived at the clubhouse on a cold Tuesday evening and instantly was taken aback by the number of people bundled into space. Within minutes, Emily had called for order and announced the session and asked Martin Doyle to bring the “newbies” down to the Dodder for Mount Carmel Laps.

Martin was very friendly and unassuming which unfortunately gave me the terrible idea of trying to do the session with him. I think I lost count the number of times Gareth, Martin and the other lads lapped me, quite the humbling experience.  

What is your favourite club session?

The fartlek laps around bushy.

In particular, a session last summer during the DCM preparation stands out. Myles had 3 miles, 2 miles and 1 mile fast with a 2 minute rest period between sets written on the wall of truth in the clubhouse. It still is to this day possibly one of the toughest sessions I’ve done, but I loved every last minute of it. I felt like a greyhound on its last legs chasing a hare (Padraig Looby). 

Tell us about your PB’s?

5 (Km/Mile) & 10 (Km/Mile)  – N/A

Half Marathon – 1.38.50

Full Marathon – 3.07.40

What is your favourite race distance?

I have still no idea, I haven’t run a 5/10km or a 5/10 mile race yet and haven’t run a half marathon since last March (a month after joining Sportsworld). However, I think naturally I’d be quicker over track distances with some training, I would love to give the 800/1500/1600 meters ago this summer (Hopefully this pandemic will subside in the coming months).

What is your favourite meal before a big race?

I ate a lot of carbs in the days leading up to my last marathon (pasta, pizza etc.) which seemed to have worked quite effectively. I try not to eat much the morning of a marathon, so I generally will eat toast, peanut butter and a banana. 

My favourite place to train is?

Bushy park on a sunny, yet cool midsummer’s eve.

What is your target for this year?

I was originally supposed to be travelling South America until mid-September and had planned to try and maintain some fitness, however, I have returned to Ireland due to the current epidemic.

I signed up for the Killarney Half, Frank Duffy 10 mile, Dublin Half and The DCM, so we’ll see how things progress.

I would love to hit sub 2.55 for Dublin this year with all things going to plan.

How often do you run / What is your typical weekly mileage?

I think in 2019 my average per week was 40km and running 5-6 times a week. In my last marathon cycle, I was trying to get up to running 80km pw consistently, but between various ailments and my hamstrings giving me a lot of trouble, it was too difficult. I began working with a physio before Christmas and that has made the world of difference. I have a plan to try and build up to 120km a week over the next 6 months in preparation for Dublin.

What is your best Sportsworld memory?

I’m not sure about my best memory, but doing the cones and barriers for the 5 miles with Packie and Martin was an experience. I had naively volunteered to leave my stewarding safe haven to help them out and boy was I not disappointed! It was a good opportunity to get to know Packie and Martin & see the Terenure 5 mile and the comradery around the event but I’m still traumatised at the sight of a cone. 

What would you say is the best thing about being in a Running Club?

I started running just over a year ago with the goal of trying to lose some weight, improve my mental health and make a couple of mates along the way who are like-minded thinkers.

A year on, this running club has completely changed my life. I’ve managed to drop nearly 17kgs, run three marathons, make some new mates and most important of all reignite my passion for sports and competition. I’m looking forward to what the rest of 2020 has to offer. 

Where’s the most interesting place you’ve been? (Doesn’t have to be running related)  

I spent 2 months in South Africa volunteering in a township near Rustenburg when I was 19 years old. We essentially were there to teach the local children some English and how to play football in anticipation for the Fifa World Cup 2010.

What international events have you ran?    

I have run marathons in both Prague and Seville. I had a half marathon booked in Chile in September (Torres del Paine) that I don’t think I’ll get to now, unfortunately.    

Where’s the most interesting place you have run?

Most definitely Japan. I went last Autumn for the Rugby World Cup and had some great running adventures through the colourful, electronic cities and tranquil countryside. I also made it on to off the ball – https://mobile.twitter.com/offtheball/status/1175857141426450432?s=19 ( 3.11 onwards) :/ .

What do you like doing when you don’t run? (hobbies/past times)

Rugby was and still is a big passion in my life, so I try to get to most Irish games and watch some club rugby when I can. I’m also an avid support of the glorious Newcastle United.

I spend a large amount of time with my friends and family and any time left over I try to read (currently – Faster Road Racing: 5K to Half Marathon by Pfitzinger).

What is your biggest non-running related achievement?

I played rugby (wing) for Terenure College throughout my school years and my biggest achievement with them was a runner up medal in the Junior Cup Final against Belvedere. 

Is there anything you would like to see more of or less of at the Club?

Nothing I can think of for now. I just hope everything resumes to normal as soon as possible.

Who is the person in the club who inspires/drives to run better?

The obvious people in the club like Myles, Emily, Michael, people on the committee etc. as for without them, there would be no sessions or club for that matter! 

On an individual level, there’re a couple of runners in the club that inspire me for different reasons (times, mileage, attitude), but I’d prefer not to embarrass any of them.

I will say that there was a group of 4 – 5 people training last Summer for the DCM in Bushy that pushed me to my limits every Tuesday and Thursday. At the time it was hell as tempo runs and fartlek at those paces were completely alien to me, but they really brought me along and I’m hoping to get those sessions in again this summer, so I’d like to say thank you to those individuals. 

Tell us something that no one in the club knows about you!?

I went to university in Madrid to study finance & speak fluent Spanish. I’m also in quarantine down in Kilkenny doing laps of a football field!