Looking back: Marathon Memories

6 races in 9 years brought back a lot of memories Racing is a rare pleasure that seems a distant memory these days. It’s made me realise how lucky we all are to be able to take part in sport and do what we love. Toeing the start line at whatever distance, from a local …

Sunrise Marathon

You can support DIL via my DONATION page - thanks! On Saturday morning, 9th May 2020, I completed a Sunrise Marathon as my way of marking #DILSunriseAppeal for #DIL2020. I ran 42km around Foxrock, starting under supermoon light at 3am and finishing in Cabinteely Park before 6am in glorious sunshine. It took 2h53m, so a …

My Favourite mountain running memory

Recently, the Irish Mountain Running Association asked us to get creative and competitive, by organising a writing competition. So no mountains involved in the harming of the production, it could all be done safely from home. It was great to see a mix of entries from all ages - juniors to seasoned athletes. Some remarkable …

What’s the future of mass participation sports events in 2020?

As a race organiser, the implications of cancelled and postponed events is real with lots of uncertainty and unknowns. In recent days, the Irish government has cancelled all mass gatherings until the end of the summer, impacting all sporting, concerts, public gatherings and social events. I thought I’d share some ideas, given my experience from …

Exploring My Neighbourhood

We've all been living #StayatHome and while it's been limiting and taken us all some adjusting to, in many ways there have been positives. For me I've enjoyed so much being able to continue training on foot and bike. Adapting to the 2km limits has made it surprisingly interesting, resurrecting a curiosity in what's on …

Masters Cross Country

This year is only 2 weeks old, yet I already have 3 medals. You might think GAA calendars are packed but in athletics it’s peak cross-country season. Especially if you’re of the mature vintage, or as athletes officially become known as “masters” when they hit 35. The species of runner who may still be young …

2 Marathons in 8 Days: What I’ve Learnt

I’ve already written 2 race reports on Frankfurt and New York City, so here I’m delving into what it was like to do 2 races within the space of a week. Not much recovery time and only the Atlantic Ocean between them. 1.    Google was right The first thing I did after decided to do …

New York City Marathon 2019: Race Report

2:46:45 – 3:56 pace – 444th place (3 November 2019) So, 2 marathons in just over a week? It's Monday night the day after New York City Marathon. I'm a bit broken. My head, throath, nose and legs all hurt. My system is a bit worn down and empty, but my mind is so happy. …

Frankfurt Marathon 2019: Race Report

2:38:04 – 3:45 pace – 181st place – 162 HR – PB by 8 minutes Life has ups and downs. You can plan, hope and try. Sometimes you can't predict the result. Yesterday's Frankfurt Marathon for me was one of those good days, where it felt really good to be alive. Doing what I love, …

Taking Stock of the Year

2019 has been a good year for me personally, professionally and sporting wise. I've had plenty of bad moments and challenges too. It's not all rosy, but in general life is good. My recent injury has forced me to stop - step back and reflect on the year so far. Sport and exercise takes energy …