Martin joined Athenry AC in early 2010 and has shown an appetite for hard training almost from the start. He also likes to follow a plan with good foundations laid. Last year he did what seemed like the entire training program for the Dublin Marathon but he never intended to participate. He built on this to run a first marathon in Connemara this year.
1. What running shoes do you train in?
Mizuno Wave Rider 15
2. How many miles did you run last week?
20 miles
3. What’s your favourite racing distance?
Like running Half Marathons, but did Connemara Full Marathon in April and loved it.
4. Where’s your favourite place to train?
Athenry, Newcastle.
5. What’s your favourite event or race each year?
Streets of Galway 8km.
6. What annoys you most at races?
Runners / walkers who are up near the front at a start of a race, and get in everyone's way.
7. What race, that you haven’t yet run, would you most like to take part in?
London Marathon. Looking forward to it.
8. What was your best-ever running performance?
Streets of Galway 8km (2011). Took nearly 5mins off 2010 time.
9. What was your worst-ever running performance?
Galway 5km series. (2010). Didn't finish Tuam race.
10. What’s the strangest thing that you’ve ever seen on a training run?
Haven't seen anything strange on my runs. So far.
11. Favourite piece of running gear?
My Garmin. I'm lost without it.
12. Who would you most enjoy beating in a sprint for the line?
Can't think of anyone. As long as i have a strong finish.
13. What was the best bit of training advice you were ever given?
No matter how many miles you do, listen to your body. It's worked for me, so far.
14. In ten years time will you still be running?
I really hope so.
15. If for some reason you were told you could never run again, how do you think you’d react?
I'd be disappointed, but hope to do some cylcing and go to the gym.
16. Have you ever been bitten by a dog while running?
No.
17. Have you ever had to stop for an emergency "Paula" during a race?
No.
18. Favourite post-race food?
No favourites. Like all food.
19. Most embarrassing ever running-related moment?
None yet.
20. The greatest Irish Athlete of all time is/was?
Eamon Coughlan