A plucky young upstart ready to take the Senior circuit by storm. Has a penchant for high mileage and Cross Country. Most recent winner of the prestigious “Harrier of the year award”. (his words!)
What age did you take up the sport of athletics and why? At 10 years old I was the fastest kid in my class and I wanted to see how that translated into the real world.
When and why did you join Clonliffe Harriers? Of all clubs it was the shortest distance from my house .
What is your favourite training workout? you simply can’t beat 400’s on the track. I’ll take as many as Joe cares to give.
And your least favourite? Tempos in Santry.
What’s your favourite race / athletics meet? I have always enjoyed the uneven national XC championships. More mud than glory.
What is your most cherished or proudest moment in athletics? (as athlete and/or coach) Winning the National Junior Cross Country Championship back in November. First time I scored for the team in this race so it felt good
What was your worst injury – and how did you get over it? Aside from a few niggles here and there I have never been injured.
(For a coach or seasoned athlete) What piece of advice would you give an aspiring athlete? Not all progress is linear. Remain patient, and hard work will eventually pay off.
Do you have any memorable or funny story from Clonliffe Harriers that you could share? (the censorship board may review!) (Redacted…by Stephen himself! Wonder what story it was….did it involve Rum?)
What’s your favourite meal? A. For competition B. Outside competition A) Chicken Tikka Masala (extra rice) B) Cheese & Pineapple Pizza
Who is your sporting ‘hero’? (athletics or other) A. Irish B. International A) Wes Hoolahan B) Craig Engels (His devotion to the mullet is truly inspiring)
What’s your favourite…? A. Film B. Song or Album C. Book A) Interstellar B) Strange Trails – Lord Huron C) The Name of the Wind – Patrick Rothfuss
What’s your favourite holiday destination? Zurich, Switzerland
What’s your favourite hobby / activity outside athletics? I do love playing No Limit Texas hold ‘em
If you were Seb Coe what changes would you implement to improve our sport? Cathal Doyle said something a few weeks back about hyping up rivalries between athletes, and having big showdown races much like the UFC. I want that.
How would your non-athlete friends describe you? (in 3 words) awe-inspiring, magnificent, humble (very).
What is your next running / athletics goal? (whenever normality returns!) Next year the goal is to medal at either Novice XC all Ireland’s or Inter XC all Irelands. Preferably both.
How are you motivating yourself to continue training at these difficult times? Shame and fear are my primary motivators, in good times and in bad.
