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OLYMPIANS:Skier Shane O’Connor, who also holds down a fulltime job in IT, will be representing Ireland at the winter Olympics in Vancouver next week, writes GRAINNE FALLER

‘IT’S LIKE DRIVING a car as fast as you want without getting into trouble. Skiing powder is almost like surfing with the snow flying over your shoulders. It’s a real adrenaline rush.” Shane O’Connor clearly adores his sport. Admittedly, it’s somewhat unusual for an Irishman to be an Olympic-standard skier, but O’Connor takes it in his stride. The Olympic Games in Vancouver beckon next week and O’Connor is doing his best to remain calm and focused.