How long have you been involved in athletics?
I took up athletics in 2022 after finishing a successful hurling career. I had always enjoyed running as part of my training for hurling, and when I decided to give competitive running a proper go, I quickly realised how much I loved the sport. It didn’t take long for me to get hooked on road racing, and from there, my focus shifted entirely to running.
What is your favorite event?
Road racing is what I enjoy the most. There’s something special about testing yourself over long distances, competing against others, and pushing your limits to achieve faster times. I love the strategy involved, the pacing, and the mental toughness it requires. Every race is different, and that keeps things exciting.
What is your greatest achievement in athletics so far?
Winning both the Novice and Intermediate Championships has been my proudest achievement to date. These wins were a massive confidence boost and a testament to the hard work I’ve put in over the past few years. Crossing the finish line knowing I had come out on top was an incredible feeling, and it’s moments like that that make all the training worthwhile.
Who is your biggest inspiration in the sport?
John Treacy has always been someone I’ve looked up to. His win at the World Cross Country Championships was legendary, and the way he raced with such grit and determination is something I try to bring into my own running.
What motivates you to keep training and competing?
I’m always chasing improvements. Whether it’s running a faster time, winning medals, or just pushing myself in training, I love seeing progress. The feeling of knowing you’re getting stronger, fitter, and faster keeps me going. There’s always another goal to aim for, and that’s what keeps me motivated day in and day out.
What does a typical training week look like for you?
I usually run between 90 and 100 miles per week. Saturdays and Sundays are my biggest days, where I do double runs to build endurance. The mileage is high, but that’s what it takes to compete at a high level. Long runs, intervals, and steady efforts all play a role in my training.
How do you prepare mentally before a big competition?
I try not to overthink things too much. Staying calm is key, and I focus on trusting my training rather than getting caught up in nerves. I remind myself that I’ve put in the work and that all I have to do is execute on race day.
What’s your most memorable moment in your athletics career?
Winning the Novice Championship in Dualla was a big moment for me. It was a tough race, but everything came together on the day, and I managed to come out on top. That feeling of crossing the finish line knowing I had won is something I’ll never forget.
What do you do outside of athletics?
Outside of running, I enjoy socialising, especially in Corcoran’s, and I’m a big fan of horse racing. It’s a great way to switch off from training and spend time with friends.
What is your favorite food or pre-race meal?
Pizza—maybe not the most traditional choice, but I love it!
Do you have a favorite brand of running shoes or gear?
Nike Alphaflys are my go-to racing shoes. They give great energy return and make a real difference in road races.
What’s your advice for someone just starting in athletics?
Don’t overcomplicate things—just go out and run. The most important thing is to enjoy it. Improvement comes with consistency, so just keep showing up, and you’ll see results.
What’s your go-to recovery routine after training or races?
The couch is my best friend after a hard session! I also make use of the Recovery Hub in Thurles, which helps with muscle recovery and keeps me in top shape for the next session.
How do you stay focused during long or tough training sessions?
I break the session down into smaller chunks. Instead of thinking about the full distance, I focus on hitting one mile or one rep at a time. That way, it feels more manageable and keeps me mentally engaged.
What are your goals for the upcoming season or future in athletics?
My big targets are the London Marathon in April and the Dublin Marathon in October. I also want to lower my personal bests in the 5K and 10K during the summer season. The goal is always to keep improving and see where I can take my running.
