On Saturday, Athlone hosted Ireland's largest triathlon, with a beginners' event and an elite competition. Five participants talk DANIELLE MORANthrough their races
DENISE DOLAN (35), from Athlone. Time: 2hrs 16mins
How many triathlons have you run?This is my first. It was something that I'd watched and I wanted to do it for my own personal achievement. I used to be a competitive swimmer but there aren't a lot of competitive events for my age group.
What was the hardest part?
I came out of the swim first but out of the transition fourth. I found the transitions hard to get used to, especially trying to get on my shoes and socks.
What was going through your mind during the final stretch?
I was really excited and with all the supporters around, it made me want to give it loads. My dad and brother [GAA star Dessie Dolan] were really supportive, sending texts and cheering at the finish line.
AILEEN MORRISON (27), elite triathlete from Derry. Time: 1hr 58mins
How many triathlons have you run?I've run 14 elite triathlons in the past two years and perhaps 10 or 12 age-group races before that.
Why did you decide to run triathlons?I was a swimmer when I was younger and a runner while I was at school. I started doing triathlons for the craic with some friends and then we started travelling to different races.
How long do you train?I'm constantly training – it's my life. I swim about five or six times a week in two-hour sessions and I cycle four times each week. I also train doing long runs, short runs and track runs.
How do you feel about your performance today?I'm absolutely over the moon with second place. I'm really so happy with my swim as I've improved a lot. I cycled strongly but while my run started fast, my legs began to cramp up towards the end.
MIRIAM BYRNE (35), from Dublin. Time: 1hr 30mins
How many triathlons have you run?This was my first.
How long did you train?I did no training. I acquired a bike this morning and I'm a hopeless swimmer. It's more about determination than about strength.
What did you have for breakfast?A couple of sweets.
STEPHEN FITZGERALD (35), from Dublin.Time: 1hr 29mins
How long did you train?I started training on Monday. It was a cram session. We signed up two months ago but forgot about it.
What was going through your mind in the final stretch?I wasn't thinking about the final distance. I tried to break it into small distances, like focusing on getting to the top of the next hill.
GAVIN NOBLE (28), elite triathlete from Fermanagh. Time: 1hr 13mins
How do you feel about your performance today?I came fifth, which is very good. If I have to lose, I'm happy to be beaten by an Irishman.
What was the hardest part?When we were sprinting towards the finish line and I had to watch three Spaniards run ahead.
What was going through your mind as you set off?I have a routine before triathlons and try to treat each race the same. I try to concentrate, hoping to swim with the lead group, and run fast enough to win, and I focus on how I plan to hold my position.
How will you celebrate tonight?There's a rumour that Mundy is playing tonight so I'll have some dinner with my family and go out with some friends.
