My running life: Let the arms do the work

‘I try to do five days a week of 40km-55km’

When did you start running and why?

I ran inter-county cross country for both schools and county in my school days but gave it all up for years and went back running about 10 years ago .

What’s been your biggest achievement?

Coming second place in the Connacht inter-schools cross country.

What’s the best thing about running?

The freedom and space.

What one thing would you change about running?

Nothing.

Where’s your regular run route?

Kilconieron – a five-mile loop around the country roads of Craughwell.

What are you training for now?

The Limerick marathon.

Are you a morning or evening runner?

Evening.

Do you stretch?

Yes.

Do you have a good or bad diet?

I have a good diet but I have a sweet tooth.

Do you have a personal trainer?

No.

What’s your average training week (how many days, distance, tempo/slow/fartlek, etc)?

I try to do five days a week of 40km-55km – a mixture of speed and tempo.

What shoe type do you wear?

Zoot or Asics Kyano.

What do you listen to when running?

My iPod is on shuffle – anything from Metallica to Band of Horses.

Any niggly injuries?

No.

Have you ever been chased by an animal?

Yes, just dogs.

What’s your favourite running book?

Why die? The extraordinary Percy Cerutty, maker of champions.

What’s your favourite running tip?

Let the arms do the work.