Listen to your neighbours when they give you good advice.

Then persist with seeing it through.

Here is one runner who took heed and has no regrets !

Marcella Gibney

 

1.When did you start running ?

Started running in 2009 ( i think) i remember saying to my good neighbour Orla Walsh "i'd love to be able to run" she told me anyone can run and brought me along the next day. Ran around newtown and will never forget it. She wouldnt let me stop thought i was going to have a heartattack. But that was the start of it never looked back. ( Thanks Orla )

2. When did you join Trim AC ?

Joined Trim AC in 2013. Was doing my usual loop of Newtown when Ciaran Tobin stopped me one evening and said stop running on your own join the club and I did.

3.Why do you run ?

I run to keep fit and healthy but also love the feeling it gives you afterwards. You feel you can achieve anything. Social aspect is great have met some great friends over the years and the chats are great. Oh and most important i can have that extra glass of wine at the weekend !!!!

4.Favourite event, race or competition (other than a Trim AC event)?

Dunshaughlin 10km. Love the way the whole community comes out of their houses to cheer you on. You feel great and gives you that push to run faster. Got a pb this year so made it even better.

5.Do you listen to music, podcasts or the natural world while running ?

No i dont listen to music i always do my runs with my good friend Sharon Costello and we entertain each other with non stop chatting. Time flies by.

6. Favourite type of training. ?

Like the short fast sessions tough going but great afterwards

7.Who is your athletics hero ?

Dont have anyone specific but anyone that completes a marathon is a hero in my eyes.

8. What is your best memory from the sport ?

Have 2 great memories 1st one was running the mini marathon in aid of Irish Cancer Society few months after i lost my mum and dad. Their battle kept me going to the end. 2nd one was running the Dublin half marathon in 2016. Ran on my own but chatted away to other runners. Great experience.

9. What is the best race or athletics competition you ever watched but did not take part in ?

Definitely the Dublin marathon last year. Stood at the Walkinstown roundabout cheering on all my club mates. Envied every one of them. Some day !!

10. What aspect of the sport gives you satisfaction ?

Love seeing the improvement you make when you are consistant in your training. Unfortunately I've had a few injuries over the last couple of years so hoping for a better year next year.

11. How important is group training to you ?

Group training will help you stay motivated. Running with a group helps me to put more effort than i usually would. It also makes you want to catch the person in front of you. That doesnt always happen though !

12. Has the sport influenced life in general ?

Yes definitely has influenced all of my family. We all run and love it some more than others.

13 .What do you feel is your best sporting attribute?

Dont have one attribute in particular but prefer endurance to speed. Lungs cant take it.

!4. What motivates you to go training on a wet and windy day ?

Knowing how much better I'll feel when I'm finished.

15. What advice would you give a new member ?

Dont feel threatened when u see everyone. Most will be faster than you but we were all there one day. Just start slow and be consistant. The sweat and tears are worth it. You will never look back. I didnt….