'The feeling is second to none'

MY RUNNING LIFE:One small run opened up a whole new experience for Mary Freyne(27)

I joined a friend for a 4km and I have never looked back

When did you start running and why? May 2011. I have always wanted to run and I never had the confidence to run on my own. I joined a friend for a 4km run and even though it was too much too soon and I was in agony for days, I have never looked back.

What has been your biggest achievement?

Each new distance race has been a bigger achievement than the last, most recently the 15-mile maxi marathon in Killarney. However, in my own mind it has been the determination and dedication to complete a marathon. It’s always been on the bucket list and I’m thrilled to finally say “I’m nearly there”.

Any disappointments? None to date. I'm lucky enough to have remained injury free.

Best thing about running? The fact that you can do it any time or anywhere and the fact that the only person you are ever trying to beat is yourself.

Where's your regular run route?

Waterford city or south Kilkenny.

What are you training for?

The Dublin marathon next week.

What’s your goal?

To finish, in one piece and hopefully afterward I’ll want to sign up for another marathon.

Are you a morning or evening runner?

Mostly evenings, running is a great way to unwind from the day.

Do you stretch?

Yes, but not as much as I should. I have very tight calves and have learned the hard way.

Good or bad diet?

Relatively good, I have three good meals a day and love fruit and water. However, I do confess to a very sweet tooth.

What’s your average training week?

At the moment it’s four days a week, three mid-week distances ranging from five to 10 miles with a long run at the weekend, anything up to 20 miles.

What do you wear on your feet?

Asics Gel Kayano.

What’s on your iPod when running?

A mixture of all sorts.

Any niggly injuries?

None at the moment.

Ever been chased by an animal?

No, thank God.

Favourite running book?

I haven’t read any yet, I’m waiting until after the marathon to read Hal Higdon’s Marathon: The Ultimate Training Guide, just in case I’m doing it wrong.

What's your favourite running tip?

You never regret going for a run and you’ll nearly always regret not going. The feeling it gives is second to none.