Seán O’Connell

When/how/why did you take up running? 

I first took up running while living in Australia, joining the Royal Ascot athletics club, but I never really competed beyond internal competitions. 

When and why did you join Togher AC? 

I joined Togher AC in 2013 really just to stay fit before solely committing to running in 2017 after realising that I enjoyed it more than other sports I was playing at the time What is/are your preferred distance/s? Three kilometre and five kilometre on track but I really prefer cross country at any distance.

What is/are your PB/s? 

1500m: 4:17 3k track: 9:11 5k Road: 16:16 

What is your proudest running moment? 

Getting the county team gold medal (and an individual medal) in the provincial u18 cross country race in 2019 because it was the first race where I actually felt like I was improving as an athlete. 

Who is/are your coach/es?

Pa Murphy with the occasional word of wisdom from Frank O’Doherty and Rob Heffernan. 

What is your main running goal for the next 12 months? 

Currently just trying to motivate myself to continue competing is the main goal but hopefully I’ll find a more concrete goal along the way.

What is your most memorable race / running moment and why? 

The same answer as for my proudest moment, as I can still remember the feeling of crossing the finish line and actually appreciating where all the training was going.

What do you like most about Togher AC? 

The strong sense of community and the availability of groups for athletes of all skill levels. 

What would you say to someone thinking of taking up running?

Start at a comfortable level before working your way up to a level of commitment that you still find enjoyable and try to be part of a group that you can train with to avoid losing interest.

Who is your favourite sporting hero? 

Jesse Owens.

What is your favourite food?

Porridge.

What is your favourite drink?

Lemon black tea.

What is your favourite film?

Indiana Jones And The Last Crusade.