A/R/tist in the Spotlight - aquinn

Murph_D

It is my great pleasure to introduce our next A/Rtist, my former clubmate and regular running mate aquinn. Aoife has been with us here since 2014 when she made a very respectable marathon debut with the novices. Recently, she has made an impressive return to full fitness following the kind of setback that would put many less tenacious runners out of the sport forever. But not her!

This should be fun. I’ll get the ball rolling with:

1. PBs?
2. Best running moment?
3. Worst running moment?
4. What colour is the dress?
5. Will you do parkrun the day after the wedding?
6. Who’s the best pacer on boards?
7. Favourite film?
8. Have you ever cut a corner during a race? What do you think of people who do?

And away we go.

Swashbuckler

Wayhayyyy. Great stuff.

OOnegative

1. Why are you so contrary on Boards?
2. Wine or beer?
3. Honeymoon destination?
4. Boards, over hyped?
5. Next marathon?
6. Who was your teenage crush?
7. How much will you miss D?
8. Other sports interests?

Bananaleaf

1. What was the setback? Asking because I feel like I'm always having setbacks and would like to be inspired
2. How do you motivate yourself to go for a run if you are dreading it?
3. What do you have to eat the day before and morning of a race?

Thanks!

Kellygirl

Great choice.

1. What are your running goals for the next 12 months now you back on form?
2. I think your fiancé runs too - did you inspire him to start or vice versa?
3. Do you have a coach?
4. Have you run a race abroad and where?
5. Would you run an ultra?

shotgunmcos

Hi aquinn!

What has your long recovery taught you?
Actual Books or Facebook?
What was your most recent binge?
Do you clean your runners?

Annie get your Run

Oooh brilliant no idea what to ask you though!!!

Would you consider defecting to Shamrocks now?
Why haven't you talked Anna into joining a club yet?
What colour are the shoes?
Crisps or chocolate?
Will you beat P in the Charleville smackdown?
Favourite Netflix series?

aquinn

Murph_D wrote: »

It is my great pleasure to introduce our next A/Rtist, my former clubmate and regular running mate aquinn. Aoife has been with us here since 2014 when she made a very respectable marathon debut with the novices. Recently, she has made an impressive return to full fitness following the kind of setback that would put many less tenacious runners out of the sport forever. But not her!

This should be fun. I’ll get the ball rolling with:

1. PBs?
2. Best running moment?
3. Worst running moment?
4. What colour is the dress?
5. Will you do parkrun the day after the wedding?
6. Who’s the best pacer on boards?
7. Favourite film?
8. Have you ever cut a corner during a race? What do you think of people who do?

And away we go.

Good morning Denis,

Thanks very much.

1. PBs?
Oh, bless the internet.
5 km St Anne's Jan 2016 21:24
10km, K Club 2015 Time: 00:46:36
10 mile. FD 10mile Swords 1:16:32.
DCM HM 2015 1:43:17
DCM 4:19:58 maybe. 2014

2. Best running moment?

Dublin City Marathon 2014. I was so proud of myself. I thought I followed the plan exactly. I realised two days before what PMP was from Adrian posting something. Oops. I, thanks to your advice, had a brilliant day. I really enjoyed it. I let go of my time early on and when I caught the 4 hour pacers after the park I purposely stopped to tie my shoelace and let them go. I stopped to give all friends and Family who came out to support me a big sweaty hug. I had an amazing day. Such a surrel expereince. I never thought I would run a marathon. It was brilliant.

3. Worst running moment?
I have had a few horror moments in relation to urgently needing the loo and not finding one. It isn't fun or pleasant.

4. What colour is the dress?
Leinster blue, obviously.

5. Will you do parkrun the day after the wedding?
Poolbeg is the closest but possibly not, will you?

6. Who’s the best pacer on boards?
Sorry now but Marthastew. She paced me for the 2014 DCM HM. I was having a horror of a day. It was warm, like it always is for my HM. I was hormonal. Desperate sleep. Legs were dead. She was amazing. She was getting ready for Berlin in a few weeks. I dropped off on the climb through the Furry Glen and the whole group were shouting my name getting me to continue but I had had enough. I kept on going and the minute I crossed the line she grabbed my wrist and saw 1:49 and gave me a massive hug. I the cycled off home and my foot cramped. The Family were in my house being amazing and clearing out my shed in my absence. The minute I opened the door my Mam arrived and I burst into tears. It wasn't a good day for me as you can possibly tell but having made it around the course and achieved sub 1:50 I was delighted and it didn't put me off DCM 6 weeks later.

Yourself obviously due to help and support at the 10mile.

FBOT was the pacer for the 5km and I lost him early on as you are still a lot better at cutting through crowds. Would hope to use him again to beat 5km PB.

7. Favourite film?
Oh no, this was the question I wasn't looking forward to. I hate the cinema, I think it is a complete waste of time and money. I like Pixar and Marvel? Indiana Jones when I was younger was brilliant, the one with Sean Connery so the first and third. Not so much the second. I don't like violence or horror. My friends are big cinema goers and for years they kept inviting me and I kept ignoring the messages. I finally went to see something with them and was so horrified I walked away and they never asked me again. The one with the Tsunami in Thailand?


8. Have you ever cut a corner during a race? What do you think of people who do?
Absolutely not. It really annoys me. People were so stupid and careless in the GT5km last week with jumping curbs and cutting corners.
I was marshalling at Junior parkrun yesterday and was telling them to run the path and not the grass as that was the course.

Thanks for the questions. I hope that's all ok.

aquinn

OOnegative wrote: »

1. Why are you so contrary on Boards?
2. Wine or beer?
3. Honeymoon destination?
4. Boards, over hyped?
5. Next marathon?
6. Who was your teenage crush?
7. How much will you miss D?
8. Other sports interests?

1. Why are you so contrary on Boards?

Contrary, me? I wouldn't have thought so. Open and brutally honest yes.

2. Wine or beer?

Both. I used to be a Bulmers drinker and in my youth learnt more than once how bad it is to drink red wine and Bulmers. Makes me very pukey and unwell the next day.

Now I'm a wine and beer drinker but with less mixing.

3. Honeymoon destination?

Heading to the West of Ireland for a few days and ensuring we make Wesport parkrun too. Hopefully NZ in the New Year.

4. Boards, over hyped?

I'm not sure. I missed the hayday of Boards and majority of the fall-outs. It took me months to even realise there was more than just the Novices thread. I used to find training logs when people would actually tell me. I've missed an awful lot and it goes very quiet and boring at times but then when we do the Spotlight it seems to bring the community spirit back which is good and positive.

5. Next marathon?

Oh I don't know. I would love to do Cork. Dublin definitely again.

6. Who was your teenage crush?

Bros? The Dallas man, Bobby?

7. How much will you miss D?

Very much. Will miss the company and runs up and back to the club. Great to have a run with him yesterday.

8. Other sports interests
P is big into rugby. I enjoy it but don't fully follow it as there is a lot going on and I don't know all the rules.

There was sailing. I used to love it but since the knee have fallen out of love with it. I still have a lovely laser to sell if anyone is interested.

I enjoy the bike. I recently gave away my racer as it hasn't been used since the ROK 2015. I cycle to work daily but do like going for long spins.

Cheers B.

aquinn

Bananaleaf wrote: »

1. What was the setback? Asking because I feel like I'm always having setbacks and would like to be inspired
2. How do you motivate yourself to go for a run if you are dreading it?
3. What do you have to eat the day before and morning of a race?

Thanks!

1. What was the setback? Asking because I feel like I'm always having setbacks and would like to be inspired

It is not a setback any runner would appreciate. I fell the last morning skiing after being careful all week. Something popped behind my knee. I was advised that I had ruptured my ACL and was told in Austria I wouldn't be doing the marathon that June. That was the 4th March 2016. I had an MRI and saw the consultant quickly. I had to spent the next few weeks building up around the knee so it was strong after surgery. I found all this ok and never in pain. Could get out and about ok. No problems walking just to be cautious. I had the operation on the 12th April 2016. I completely underestimated the surgery. It took 4 months to walk pain free. One month to come off crutches. I still have a tightness in the knee on stairs. It still swells up. It was a hard time. My confidence took an awful knock. I had to be shown how to get on a bike and use the cross-trainer etc. I didn't start a walk-to-run program until Jan 2017. It was hard going but I was told to stay involved. I was voted on to the sailing committee and I volunteered regulary at parkrun and club events so I wouldn't be completely cut-off when I came back.

2. How do you motivate yourself to go for a run if you are dreading it?

Motivation does come and go. I was tired a few weeks back and had zero interest in going out. Once I did I enjoyed it. Just took it easy and was always happy coming back from a run and sticking with the schedule.

I asked Testerscone to coach me before Christmas. When someone takes on the responsibility and puts the time in then it is only fair on them to make the effort too.

3. What do you have to eat the day before and morning of a race?

I used to always get up 3 hours beforehand and have a dialoryte and porridge. Before the 10 mile in Swords and the morning of the South Dublin 10km I had toast and jam.

The night before I always had lasanga from the butchers. Loved it. Nowdays I think before the 10mile it was steak and potatoes and chips. Maybe a magnum too.

I hope that helped and thanks.

aquinn

Kellygirl wrote: »

Great choice.

1. What are your running goals for the next 12 months now you back on form?
2. I think your fiancé runs too - did you inspire him to start or vice versa?
3. Do you have a coach?
4. Have you run a race abroad and where?
5. Would you run an ultra?

Great choice. Thanks

1. What are your running goals for the next 12 months now you back on form?

I would like a HM PB from Charleville to show off the training.

After that I think switch to a 5km focus. Unfortunately now I think I'm going to miss Jingle bells but maybe the Tom Brennan run on NYD.

2. I think your fiancé runs too - did you inspire him to start or vice versa?

He did run before we met and sucessfully completed the C25km. Gave it up but when we met I took him to his first parkrun in St Anne's and he is flying since. His first HM he did incredibly well in the Rock n Roll last year. He is an excellent runner.

3. Do you have a coach?

I do yes, Luke from these parts. I had my deferrral from Cork 2016 and had an entry for this year and hoped to complete it. Last November I contacted him and asked would he be able to coach me as I didn't think I had a confidence in myself to push myself doing the meno plan. I needed help and guidance and he has been excellent. Knows my strenghts more than I do and what I am capable of.

4. Have you run a race abroad and where?

I don't think so actually. I run on holidays but haven't done a race or parkrun abroad.

5. Would you run an ultra?

I think so actually. I'm hardy enough and had notions a few years ago about doing Donadea so yes, maybe. Have to break sub 4 first and go from there.

Cheers K.

aquinn

shotgunmcos wrote: »

Hi aquinn!

What has your long recovery taught you?
Actual Books or Facebook?
What was your most recent binge?
Do you clean your runners?

Heya!

What has your long recovery taught you?

I know what the word stoic means as it was used many times in 2016.

An ACL recovery isn't easy and everyone heals differently. I will never ski again as a result of it.

I cried once when I realised what I had done to myself and only the once.

Actual Books or Facebook?

I'm reading trash on Kindle at the minute. FB and trying to learn twitter.

What was your most recent binge?

Binge for food or shopping?

I do love shopping, oh and food.

Do you clean your runners?

Only if I stand in something unpleasant that we don't want in the house. I'm sure I would get rid of muck. I have washed them a few times and told it wrecks them so try to do that when they are now retired.

Cheers, I hope you're well.

aquinn

Murph_D wrote: »

It is my great pleasure to introduce our next A/Rtist, my former clubmate and regular running mate aquinn. Aoife has been with us here since 2014 when she made a very respectable marathon debut with the novices. Recently, she has made an impressive return to full fitness following the kind of setback that would put many less tenacious runners out of the sport forever. But not her!

This should be fun. I’ll get the ball rolling with:

1. PBs?
2. Best running moment?
3. Worst running moment?
4. What colour is the dress?
5. Will you do parkrun the day after the wedding?
6. Who’s the best pacer on boards?
7. Favourite film?
8. Have you ever cut a corner during a race? What do you think of people who do?

And away we go.

WAIT a minute. How could I forget.

The Novices in the Phoenix Park. That October in 2015. Will never forget or get over it. Not matter how many bad moments during running and needing a loo that was still a shock that took a long time to get over.

aquinn

Annie get your Run wrote: »

Oooh brilliant no idea what to ask you though!!!

Would you consider defecting to Shamrocks now?
Why haven't you talked Anna into joining a club yet?
What colour are the shoes?
Crisps or chocolate?
Will you beat P in the Charleville smackdown?
Favourite Netflix series?

Would you consider defecting to Shamrocks now?

No, I'm ok. I just need to get used to the run up and back. Not looking forward to Winter, more for security but will persist in trying to get P/Anna/BG down to the club.

The big draw of having a track as I would be afraid of running on the grass and wrecking myself.

They have been off for the Summer but I normally train with a great group and lovely and consistent runners so hopefully with schools back they will return.

Why haven't you talked Anna into joining a club yet?

I don't know. I keep failing at this one so far. Trust me, it has been mentioned numerous times but no joy as yet

What colour are the shoes?

I'm currently wearing black Clarke runners

Crisps or chocolate?

Crisps.

Will you beat P in the Charleville smackdown?

I don't think so. He left me for dead with 2 miles to go at the 10 mile. I surged ahead of him at the GT5km last week and he got blocked on the last few steps and we still ended up with the same time. Sake.

Favourite Netflix series

I enjoyed the Crown. I thought it was very well done.

I had never seen the Good Wife and was getting in to it and they removed it.

Suits is thrash yet watching it.

Ozark is back.

That really weird cult thing in Amercia in the 70's. That was fairly shocking.

Cheers AM.

Murph_D

aquinn wrote: »

WAIT a minute. How could I forget.

The Novices in the Phoenix Park. That October in 2015. Will never forget or get over it. Not matter how many bad moments during running and needing a loo that was still a shock that took a long time to get over.

Haha - I’d almost forgotten that myself. You certainly had the dazed and confused look afterwards, and haven’t run XC since, if I’m correct?

aquinn

Murph_D wrote: »

Haha - I’d almost forgotten that myself. You certainly had the dazed and confused look afterwards, and haven’t run XC since, if I’m correct?

Ah no to my credit I did. I just learnt a lot that day.

I did the Raheny one and then even bought spikes for the National Masters in Dundalk. They were much better days out as it was all about survival and not hating it.

Oh I did the Gardai Cross country and came maybe 17th?

My Strava photo is from the Dundalk Masters.

aquinn

Oh and my one and only 4 mile race was this year on the day two years previously I ruptured my ACL it was at the end of our snow week.

Lusk 4 mile. 29:01.

Swashbuckler

Great choice. Happy to learn more about a fellow Glue Factory member.

1. What's the best part about having a coach?
2. Favourite distance?
3. Prefer a good session or a nice long run?
4. Favourite session?
5. Post race treat?
6. Favourite parkrun outside of Dublin?
7. If you could go for a run with anyone famous who would it be and why?
8. If you could run anywhere in the world where would it be?
9. Favourite day of the year?
10. Happiest moment in your life?
11. Biggest regret?

Huzzah!

Excellent choice.

1. Bucketlist race?
2. Favourite place you've visited?
3. If you could go anywhere in the world, no expenses spared, where would you go?
4. Favourite restaurant?
5. If you could give your 16-year-old self advice, what would it be?

RayCun

Just popping in to say hello, but while I'm here...

Favourite race you've run?
Targets for the next year?
Have you run track races?
Do you do stretches/strength/conditioning work regularly?
Drills before sessions or races?
What would you go back and change What are you going to change about your running?

Bungy Girl

• Stranded indefinitely on a desert island. Your 3 must-have items ?
• Murder/Marry/MakeOut - choose from boardsies only.
• Who would you have on your ideal pub quiz team and why ?
• What did you want to be when you grew up ?
• Guilty pleasure ?
• Something you're really good at (apart from running obvs)
• Bad Boy crush ?

aquinn

Swashbuckler wrote: »

Great choice. Happy to learn more about a fellow Glue Factory member.

1. What's the best part about having a coach?
2. Favourite distance?
3. Prefer a good session or a nice long run?
4. Favourite session?
5. Post race treat?
6. Favourite parkrun outside of Dublin?
7. If you could go for a run with anyone famous who would it be and why?
8. If you could run anywhere in the world where would it be?
9. Favourite day of the year?
10. Happiest moment in your life?
11. Biggest regret?

Morning P,

1. What's the best part about having a coach?

The feedback/help advice and support. As I previously said Luke knows my ability better than I do and without question. I doubt myself. Early on I underestimated a few sessions which on paper looked easy and I thought he was being soft on me but he really wasn't.
He knew recently I was tiring and needed a step-back week. On the Tuesday I was gung-ho to go to the club. He emailed the weekly plan and it was a step-back and as the day went on I was delighted then not to have a session and to go for an easy run as I was wrecked.

2. Favourite distance?

Well, I had thought 10 miles as I had always loved and excelled at the Frank Duffy 10 mile. After Swords I'm doubting that distance.

3. Prefer a good session or a nice long run?

I do like 400's. I settle into a good and steady pace and enjoy it.

4. Favourite session?

I did a LR progression during the snow days. The weather and roads were in desperate condition and I did the run and delighted to have absolutely nailed it.

5. Post race treat?

The goodie bag? I had an apple after the 10 mile and it was delicious. There would be an ice-cream I'm sure added at some point during the day to celebrate.

6. Favourite parkrun outside of Dublin?

I think I have only done the 3 so far. Tramore, Dungloe and Castletown in North Kildare. All I actually raced and ended up doing well in. Top 3 maybe in all. I don't know actually. I loved them all.

Tramore was on a mental day with the sea crashing over the promonade and I loved it. It was wild.

Dungloe I abandoned the session and went with it and thought I was lead Female, turns out I was beaten by a child and lady with a dog but it was a super run and scenery.

Casteltown out in North Kildare where I am from. We did a little tour one morning with Laura_AC, Murph and FBOT. The conditions were like cross-country. Big muddles and scary surface. It was hard going and a right challenge but I did love it.

7. If you could go for a run with anyone famous who would it be and why?

I am not bothered by Famous people. I suppose it depends though on why they are famous. No one comes to mind though.

8. If you could run anywhere in the world where would it be?

Australia.

9. Favourite day of the year?

When the clocks change. Springtime!

10. Happiest moment in your life?

Ah no, that's a really hard one.

My Paul, my Family, my friends. The day I got the keys to my house. The day my close friends started to have babies I would always cry in delight. So happy and proud, like their Wedding days.
11. Biggest regret?

Reading too much Jilly Cooper in study in secondary school and not actually doing much for my education.

Not going on to get my degree.

Being too stubborn in a job that I hated to actually leave it. I had a desperate boss for a very long time and was miserable.

aquinn

Huzzah! wrote: »

Excellent choice.

1. Bucketlist race?
2. Favourite place you've visited?
3. If you could go anywhere in the world, no expenses spared, where would you go?
4. Favourite restaurant?
5. If you could give your 16-year-old self advice, what would it be?

Good morning,

Sorry for only recently realising who you were on strava and ignoring the previous request.


1. Bucketlist race?

I don't have one but from reading reports I think it would have to be a big city marathon, a tourist run

Boston sounds horrendous with the point-to-point route but incredible support too.

London/NY.

Rotterdam then maybe to give a flat and fast a go.

I wish I could do the Wings for Life another go as I did it in Dun Laoghaire a few years ago and was very proud of myself for running from Dublin to Wicklow. That was a brilliant event.

2. Favourite place you've visited?

Queenstown, New Zealand. It was amazing. I cannot wait to go back.

Many other places can be easily added but it is spectacular.

3. If you could go anywhere in the world, no expenses spared, where would you go?

I would love to do a cruise around Alaska. Head from Vancouver.

4. Favourite restaurant?

Chez Max, delicious. Friendly. Red wine, steak, chips. They no longer do escargot though with the amazing garlic butter. Yum.

5. If you could give your 16-year-old self advice, what would it be?

Stop reading Jilly Cooper.

aquinn

Oops, forgot another race

Raheny 5 mile 2016 36:16.

aquinn

RayCun wrote: »

Just popping in to say hello, but while I'm here...

Favourite race you've run?
Targets for the next year?
Have you run track races?
Do you do stretches/strength/conditioning work regularly?
Drills before sessions or races?
What would you go back and change What are you going to change about your running?

Morning Ray, good to finally meet you.

Favourite race you've run?

DCM in the heatwave of 2014 was incredible.

I was strong and consistent in the DCM HM in 2015 and proud of that. The 2 previous years were desperate.

My first ever race and then going back a year later and smashing that time.

Targets for the next year?

Smash my 5km PB and marathon, do it all. Why not.

Have you run track races?

No, have only done time trials at the club. They do it in the Novices the last Tuesday of the month to see if you can break sub 13 and move up lanes.

I am generally very jumpy so don't do well with guns or loud noises.

Do you do stretches/strength/conditioning work regularly?

Oh no. Let my gym membership expire in May. I have high hopes of always doing this but never sign up for anything. I'm doing pilates the last few weeks and enjoy that. I find it nice and relaxing.


Drills before sessions or races?

One of the physio's when I was recovering gave me drills to do before a run when I was starting back. I didn't like them and it put me off running. I just wanted to be able to go out and run in a straight line. None of this shuffle nonsense.


What would you go back and change What are you going to change about your running?[/

Be more amazing then I was in my prime of 2015?

Huzzah!

aquinn wrote: »

Sorry for only recently realising who you were on strava and ignoring the previous request.

No problem - you can't be too careful these days.

aquinn wrote: »

5. If you could give your 16-year-old self advice, what would it be?

Stop reading Jilly Cooper.

Rupert Campbell Black is necessary reading, imho

aquinn

Bungy Girl wrote: »

• Stranded indefinitely on a desert island. Your 3 must-have items ?
• Murder/Marry/MakeOut - choose from boardsies only.
• Who would you have on your ideal pub quiz team and why ?
• What did you want to be when you grew up ?
• Guilty pleasure ?
• Something you're really good at (apart from running obvs)
• Bad Boy crush ?

Arrgh, how random!

Stranded indefinitely on a desert island. Your 3 must-have items ?

Water
Food
Paul

Murder/Marry/MakeOut - choose from boardsies only.

Ha.
Murder Chivitto 550
Marry misterpaul
Makeout misterpaul

Who would you have on your ideal pub quiz team and why ?

Poor team 8.
Someone who knows politics
Watches tv
Good general knowledge
Someone to get drinks.

What did you want to be when you grew up ?

Ugh, an Accountant like my Dad. I also wanted braces, glasses and a perm like my Sister.

Guilty pleasure ?

Purple snack bars. Lovely. Nibble all the chocolate off the sides and then gobble the rest.

Something you're really good at (apart from running obvs)

Not sailing anyway. I'm good at remembering dates and Birthdays.

Shopping too.

Bad Boy crush ?

Your man from 4 weddings who was much more himself in About a Boy?
Hugh Grant.

Cheers G.

mister paul

aquinn wrote: »

Stranded indefinitely on a desert island. Your 3 must-have items ?

Water
Food
Paul

Murder/Marry/MakeOut - choose from boardsies only.

Ha.
Murder Chivitto 550
Marry misterpaul
Makeout misterpaul

Who would you have on your ideal pub quiz team and why ?

Poor team 8.
Someone who knows politics
Watches tv
Good general knowledge
Someone to get drinks.

Phew...

Annie get your Run

I have more if that's okay.

When did you start running?
What got you into it?
You seem to have bucket loads of natural talent, did you do other competitive sports when you were younger?
Is there a history of running in your family?

Thanks!

aquinn

Annie get your Run wrote: »

I have more if that's okay.

When did you start running?
What got you into it?
You seem to have bucket loads of natural talent, did you do other competitive sports when you were younger?
Is there a history of running in your family?

Thanks!

Of course it is ok and thank you.

When did you start running?

I did Bootcamp in the Phoenix park and got very fit. Gave it up, went to the gym when I moved Northside. Realised eventually that I was getting up to cycle to a spin class for 30 minutes, cycling home and then cycling to work so not the best use of a gym membership.

I then went back to bootcamp in Marino and trained with them for a few weeks to get my fitness back.

My friends got me to sign up for the Simon 5 mile which is the first weekend of October. I then spent September building up to be able to run 5 miles. The first few times weren't fun. Did runs and slowly built up the distance. The first time I ran for 30 minutes continiously I was delighted with myself. That was the best part.

5 of us had signed up for the race. 4 turned up on the day, 1 had actually completed 5 miles (ME). I ran my best that day. Dry wretched the whole way up Khyber and refused to stop. Finished in 41:04 and was extremely delighted with myself. Used sailing watch for timing.


What got you into it?

See above. Second race was the GIR, I absolutely hated it. Hated. Thought it was awful. Saw my time in the paper the Monday and I had finished ahead of Leo V our then Minister for Sport. Ordered a forerunner from China and entered the Clontarf HM on the Wednesday.

Next Simon 5 mile was 37:56 I think.

You seem to have bucket loads of natural talent, did you do other competitive sports when you were younger?

I went to school down the country and they were born and raised with Camoige. I thought it was frightening to then be put on an all-weather pitch to play hockey against them. Tennis I used to enjoy and basketball funnily enough. No real sports though.

Is there a history of running in your family?

Ha, no. They think I'm all mad and must be running away from something.

HelenAnne

Hello! Well done on the thread so far! People have already asked such great questions, I only have a few!

1) Do you feel you're fully back, confidence-wise after your knee operation? You're running great, but would you still hesitate to push as hard? Do you think you'll ever almost 'forget' you had surgery?

2) You should be really proud of all the work you did rehabbing you knee. Were there any unexpected positive effects? Like did the rehab make any parts of you stronger than ever, in ways you might notice either in running or ADL ('activities of daily living')

3) Loads of boardsies in your 'group' (I men people you run with like Murph D, Anna PR, Bungy Girl) sometimes do sessions on their own with the watch. Do you mainly do yours with the club, and if you do both, which do you prefer - your own timed session or track sessions with the club.

4) Favourite strip/singlet/colours of all the Dublin clubs (apart from Crusaders)

Thanks!!

ariana`

Great answers so far!

1. Have you a dream race or time that you feel you'd retire happy if/when you achieve or do the goal posts keep moving?
2. Best piece of advice you've ever been given?
3. Single piece of advice you'd give to someone starting out?
4. Any guilty pleasures?
5. Strava/social media in general - help or hindrance?
And finally would you mind sharing the secret to running fast

diego_b

Another fine thread, hope not to repeat anything asked so far.

1. Long term wise, what would you like achieve on the running front. Are there certain races or times you really wish to do?

2. Do you feel you are a stronger person now after coming through what you did with your knee?

3. If you could beat one boardsie (aside from misterpaul) in a sprint finish who would it be?

4. Why did you choose Crusaders to run with? If you had to pick a different Dublin AC, which one would it be?

5. How sweet was that 10 mile pb knowing you are faster now for that distance post surgery than you were before. That is fair going!!

6. How much would you like people to not ask you about your knee?

Singer

1. Did you think you got away with me asking questions? (Some of the questions might look familiar )

2. Will you go skiing again?Already answered... will you go on a holiday somewhere snowy again?

3. Did you like school?

4. What's your fave running gear? Any particularly nice or preferred tops/shorts/etc.?

5. Best meal you've ever eaten?

6. Best restaurant in Dublin?

7. Best holiday you've been on?

8. Top 3 concerts you've been to.

9. Best posts on A/R/T? (or at least, tell us about some posts you can easily recall 'cos they were awesome)?

10. Best ever threads on A/R/T?

11. Historically and right now, what are the best logs on A/R/T?

12. Do you have any treasured running paraphernalia, like old race numbers, your first pair of running runners, Raheny 5M plaque etc.? Or at least hang on to any of it? Or is it straight into the bin?

13. Which part of the Tuesday Cru warmup is your fave? Any part you dislike? How seriously do you take it?

14. Which poster(s) do you miss the most on A/R/T?

15. Why am I calling it A/R/T when the "T" has long since been banished?!

16. If you could only have one of Strava, the club or boards, which would it be and why?

17. Desert Island Discs?

18. Any claims to fame?

19. Ever meet anyone famous?

20. You've just won the lottery! What do you do? (Like, serious money, Euromillions).

aquinn

HelenAnne wrote: »

Hello! Well done on the thread so far! People have already asked such great questions, I only have a few!

1) Do you feel you're fully back, confidence-wise after your knee operation? You're running great, but would you still hesitate to push as hard? Do you think you'll ever almost 'forget' you had surgery?

2) You should be really proud of all the work you did rehabbing you knee. Were there any unexpected positive effects? Like did the rehab make any parts of you stronger than ever, in ways you might notice either in running or ADL ('activities of daily living')

3) Loads of boardsies in your 'group' (I men people you run with like Murph D, Anna PR, Bungy Girl) sometimes do sessions on their own with the watch. Do you mainly do yours with the club, and if you do both, which do you prefer - your own timed session or track sessions with the club.

4) Favourite strip/singlet/colours of all the Dublin clubs (apart from Crusaders)

Thanks!!

ARRGH, it lost all my answers. Will be back.

HelenAnne

aquinn wrote: »

ARRGH, it lost all my answers. Will be back.

Oh nooooooo! I hate when that happens. I went through a phase of typing everything in Word and then pasting into boards as it was eating my posts so often. Sympathies!!!

aquinn

HelenAnne wrote: »

Hello! Well done on the thread so far! People have already asked such great questions, I only have a few!

1) Do you feel you're fully back, confidence-wise after your knee operation? You're running great, but would you still hesitate to push as hard? Do you think you'll ever almost 'forget' you had surgery?

2) You should be really proud of all the work you did rehabbing you knee. Were there any unexpected positive effects? Like did the rehab make any parts of you stronger than ever, in ways you might notice either in running or ADL ('activities of daily living')

3) Loads of boardsies in your 'group' (I men people you run with like Murph D, Anna PR, Bungy Girl) sometimes do sessions on their own with the watch. Do you mainly do yours with the club, and if you do both, which do you prefer - your own timed session or track sessions with the club.

4) Favourite strip/singlet/colours of all the Dublin clubs (apart from Crusaders)

Thanks!!

1) Do you feel you're fully back, confidence-wise after your knee operation? You're running great, but would you still hesitate to push as hard? Do you think you'll ever almost 'forget' you had surgery?　
　
I have my fitness back anyway. I'm not sure about confidence. The majority of it I would say. Things like slippy surfaces and getting a kick in races still give me a fright. I'm careful with curbs. I can't use the knee as an excuse not to run anyway. Even if it swells during the day if I go for a run it doesn't bother me. I think I'm ok at pushing. More building confidence required though as to what I can achieve. I am more cautious that I used to be and wouldn't be a big risk taker anyway. At the minute I don't see myself as forgetting it as I can feel it every time I go down stairs.

2) You should be really proud of all the work you did rehabbing you knee. Were there any unexpected positive effects? Like did the rehab make any parts of you stronger than ever, in ways you might notice either in running or ADL ('activities of daily living')
　
Thank you. The rehab was tough going. I had a bad moment and a moan to my Sister after not seeing any improvement. She was very sensible and reminded me that I have a life and a job and can't spend the whole time in the gym. I am only normal and doing the best that I could as I am not a professional sportsperson. I do wonder should I really go back to the physio exercises and I possibly should. The minute the physio told me I could train for intervals and that it would help the knee rather than continueous running I was gone like a flash and back at the club and the physio hasn't seen me since. 　

3) Loads of boardsies in your 'group' (I men people you run with like Murph D, Anna PR, Bungy Girl) sometimes do sessions on their own with the watch. Do you mainly do yours with the club, and if you do both, which do you prefer - your own timed session or track sessions with the club.

I only tend to go to the club once a week and that is on Tuesdays. I get a weekly schedule where I have the option of the club or do a session. I don't mind doing sessions on my own but wouldn't attempt a 12*400 or anything like that. I was recently given a 15*1 minute alternating between steady and easy pace. This I did ok and enjoyed it. It is good to train with the club and I have to get used to doing the run up and back on my own. It is a fair distance on a Tuesday night as I would end up covering 10+ miles with the run and then the session. The club do hills and long runs and a Thursday session which I don't do. 　

Parkrun is amazing on a Saturday for incorporating a session. I have noticed that if I need to do a segment before parkrun I am very sluggish and struggling. Once parkrun starts it is the opposite and I have to slow myself down.
　
4) Favourite strip/singlet/colours of all the Dublin clubs (apart from Crusaders)

I don't think any of them are flattering to be honest. I did think it was really great at the recent 10 mile in Swords at the number of parkrun t-shirts though. 　
I hope that's all ok and thanks very much.

aquinn

ariana` wrote: »

Great answers so far!

1. Have you a dream race or time that you feel you'd retire happy if/when you achieve or do the goal posts keep moving?
2. Best piece of advice you've ever been given?
3. Single piece of advice you'd give to someone starting out?
4. Any guilty pleasures?
5. Strava/social media in general - help or hindrance?
And finally would you mind sharing the secret to running fast

Good morning, congratulations on your weekend PB:

1. Have you a dream race or time that you feel you'd retire happy if/when you achieve or do the goal posts keep moving? 　

Not something I have thought about to be honest. I do love running but then when people say they want to keep on running when they are 70+ this doesn't appeal to me at all. Running is hard work. I would like to think I gave it my all and lined up as best I could with the predictions. I would like to achieve my full potential that if I trained for something that I did achieve it. 　

Times would be sub 20km. Sub 43 or below for the 10km. Sub 35 for 5 mile. Sub 3:40 for the marathon. 　

They are all fine times I would love to achieve.　


2. Best piece of advice you've ever been given? 　

From the novices in 2014 before the marathon and I still think it was from Murph_D, he doesn't think it was. To enjoy your first marathon, you will never get the chance again. Embrace the day. 　

Also, no matter how horrific the race was smile at the finish for the photos as you'll be stalked for months when they want you to buy them. 　


3. Single piece of advice you'd give to someone starting out? 　

None of us like running at the start. Once you run continuously for 30 minutes you have broken the back of it and you will then start to enjoy it. 　

We all have unpleasant toilet moments and all move on. Don't fret. 　


4. Any guilty pleasures? 　

Purple snacks, see previous post. 　


5. Strava/social media in general - help or hindrance? 　

Yes, on Strava/FB/Twitter for the most part. 　

I met P on Tinder so would obviously be a big fan of it.
And finally would you mind sharing the secret to running fast 　

Being short and stubborn?

Murph_D

2. Best piece of advice you've ever been given? 　

From the novices in 2014 before the marathon and I still think it was from Murph_D, he doesn't think it was. To enjoy your first marathon, you will never get the chance again. Embrace the day. 　

Also, no matter how horrific the race was smile at the finish for the photos as you'll be stalked for months when they want you to buy them. 　

Well that didn’t sound quite like how I would put it, so I looked it up from that thread.

Murph_D wrote: »

Best of luck, all you debut marathoners.

Like some other things in life, the first time is rarely your greatest performance, but it's often the most memorable.

Trust the training, grab the reward, enjoy.

HelenAnne

Thanks! Great answers

Annie get your Run

Murph_D wrote: »

Well that didn’t sound quite like how I would put it, so I looked it up from that thread.

I knew D was gonna do that :D

Murph_D

Annie get your Run wrote: »

I knew D was gonna do that :D

Pedantic to the last!

annapr

Great thread, Aoife and everyone asking the questions...

1. You're someone who comes across as relentlessly positive... even in the depths of your rehab, you handled it really well... how do you manage to stay so upbeat?

2. What's your proudest moment as a pacer? (excluding almost killing me on the way to my 5k pb) How would you rate your pacing skills? (cough)

3. What's your pet hate at parkrun?

4. So, now that it's Friday will you be taking a break from work Boards for the weekend?

5. Is 'North Kildare' really a thing?

6. What's the worst thing any Boardsie has ever called you to your face in real life... (ok, in McGrattan's)?

aquinn

diego_b wrote: »

Another fine thread, hope not to repeat anything asked so far.

1. Long term wise, what would you like achieve on the running front. Are there certain races or times you really wish to do?

2. Do you feel you are a stronger person now after coming through what you did with your knee?

3. If you could beat one boardsie (aside from misterpaul) in a sprint finish who would it be?

4. Why did you choose Crusaders to run with? If you had to pick a different Dublin AC, which one would it be?

5. How sweet was that 10 mile pb knowing you are faster now for that distance post surgery than you were before. That is fair going!!

6. How much would you like people to not ask you about your knee?

Evening,


1. Long term wise, what would you like achieve on the running front. Are there certain races or times you really wish to do?

Similar to another question. I suppose to run and race to the best of my ability.

I would love to pace actually, a HM or the fitness for the full and to be able to help others.

2. Do you feel you are a stronger person now after coming through what you did with your knee?

I completely underestimated what it would take out of me. I'm strong willed anyway but the biggest shock was losing my confidence. I had to be shown how to get on/off a bike or cross-trainer. Simple tasks.

What got me most at the start that it all happened so quickly and painlessly. That was what really made it hard. Some people are 'lucky' and their ACL just pops. Because I had no pain until the drugs wore off after surgery. That I found very hard.

3. If you could beat one boardsie (aside from misterpaul) in a sprint finish who would it be?

Ha, BG.

4. Why did you choose Crusaders to run with? If you had to pick a different Dublin AC, which one would it be?

It was equal distance at the time from home to Clonliffe and Raheny. As Denis and BG were members I went with Crusaders.

5. How sweet was that 10 mile pb knowing you are faster now for that distance post surgery than you were before. That is fair going!!

It's about time I got a new PB so delighted.

6. How much would you like people to not ask you about your knee?

I don't mind. If I'm tired I can still limp or on a bad surface. It still swells in the cold and doesn't like the heat either.

Cheers D

Kellygirl

aquinn wrote: »

6. How much would you like people to not ask you about your knee?

I don't mind. If I'm tired I can still limp or on a bad surface. It still swells in the cold and doesn't like the heat either.

Cheers D

I think I told you that I had the same operation in 2009 also after a skiing accident. I have absolutely no trouble any more doing anything or with swelling or anything like that. It prob took two years to get to that point though.

It’s been very interesting reading your answers. Great thread.

aquinn

Singer wrote: »

1. Did you think you got away with me asking questions? (Some of the questions might look familiar )

2. Will you go skiing again?Already answered... will you go on a holiday somewhere snowy again?

3. Did you like school?

4. What's your fave running gear? Any particularly nice or preferred tops/shorts/etc.?

5. Best meal you've ever eaten?

6. Best restaurant in Dublin?

7. Best holiday you've been on?

8. Top 3 concerts you've been to.

9. Best posts on A/R/T? (or at least, tell us about some posts you can easily recall 'cos they were awesome)?

10. Best ever threads on A/R/T?

11. Historically and right now, what are the best logs on A/R/T?

12. Do you have any treasured running paraphernalia, like old race numbers, your first pair of running runners, Raheny 5M plaque etc.? Or at least hang on to any of it? Or is it straight into the bin?

13. Which part of the Tuesday Cru warmup is your fave? Any part you dislike? How seriously do you take it?

14. Which poster(s) do you miss the most on A/R/T?

15. Why am I calling it A/R/T when the "T" has long since been banished?!

16. If you could only have one of Strava, the club or boards, which would it be and why?

17. Desert Island Discs?

18. Any claims to fame?

19. Ever meet anyone famous?

20. You've just won the lottery! What do you do? (Like, serious money, Euromillions).

"]1. Did you think you got away with me asking questions? (Some of the questions might look familiar )

So close!

2. Will you go skiing again?Already answered... will you go on a holiday somewhere snowy again?

I still have my ski gear but no, definitely not skiing. I'm not going boarding either before you ask.

Being on top of a mountain covered in snow and looking around and appreciating it all is magical. It is so beautiful up there. I don't see myself hiking up, and especially not to then jump off with a shute on your back.

3. Did you like school?

I did yes, I had no problems with anyone. Never in trouble.

4. What's your fave running gear? Any particularly nice or preferred tops/shorts/etc.?

I don't think so. Anything that doesn't leave a welt really. Sure I look great in everything?

5. Best meal you've ever eaten?

I treated my Sister to Heron and Grey in Blackrock market last year, it was incredible.

6. Best restaurant in Dublin?

I do love Chez Max. Opium was really good recently. The Washerwoman is excellent. I do love food so the list is fairly long.


7. Best holiday you've been on?

13 months around the world. Turns out I have run in Australia.

8. Top 3 concerts you've been to.

The Stone roses in the park a few years ago was excellent.
REM in Slane were super, I had gone to see Oasis and they were s#@t.
Saw Lunusa recently with Natalie Portman, that was a great gig.


9. Best posts on A/R/T? (or at least, tell us about some posts you can easily recall 'cos they were awesome)?

10. Best ever threads on A/R/T?



11. Historically and right now, what are the best logs on A/R/T?

There was a time that I read logs that have been around for years from the start. I thought Killerz was excellent. I have yet to read Kristy's.

12. Do you have any treasured running paraphernalia, like old race numbers, your first pair of running runners, Raheny 5M plaque etc.? Or at least hang on to any of it? Or is it straight into the bin?

Nothing goes in the bin. I am a hoarder.

Yes, I keep all race numbers and write the summary of how it went always on it. Most is them mention how bloody hot it was.


13. Which part of the Tuesday Cru warmup is your fave? Any part you dislike? How seriously do you take it?

I don't like the warm-up. I tend to not do some of the bits I don't like so ignore them. The knee in my excuse, it doesn't like bum kicks. I like strides.

14. Which poster(s) do you miss the most on A/R/T?

The grumpy meno.

15. Why am I calling it A/R/T when the "T" has long since been banished?!

I don't think I noticed this before. T for triathlon?

16. If you could only have one of Strava, the club or boards, which would it be and why?

My clubs on Strava.

17. Desert Island Discs?

18. Any claims to fame?

My Mother's, Cousins in-laws wrote the Fields of Athenry.

Dad's relations brought Naper Tandy in at Burtonport.

19. Ever meet anyone famous?
Aidan Gillen count?

20. You've just won the lottery! What do you do? (Like, serious money, Euromillions

Start with this for the craic?
https://m.myhome.ie/residential/brochure/21-cambridge-terrace-york-road-monkstown-co-dublin/4268906
Posting now before I lose this.

Thanks B

aquinn

Kellygirl wrote: »

I think I told you that I had the same operation in 2009 also after a skiing accident. I have absolutely no trouble any more doing anything or with swelling or anything like that. It prob took two years to get to that point though.

It’s been very interesting reading your answers. Great thread.

Thank you.

I know you mentioned it but I didn't know when you had it done. No more swelling or concerns, fully trust it? Ski again?

aquinn

annapr wrote: »

Great thread, Aoife and everyone asking the questions...

1. You're someone who comes across as relentlessly positive... even in the depths of your rehab, you handled it really well... how do you manage to stay so upbeat?

2. What's your proudest moment as a pacer? (excluding almost killing me on the way to my 5k pb) How would you rate your pacing skills? (cough)

3. What's your pet hate at parkrun?

4. So, now that it's Friday will you be taking a break from work Boards for the weekend?

5. Is 'North Kildare' really a thing?

6. What's the worst thing any Boardsie has ever called you to your face in real life... (ok, in McGrattan's)?

Ha, spot the person who knows me well.

1. You're someone who comes across as relentlessly positive... even in the depths of your rehab, you handled it really well... how do you manage to stay so upbeat?

I don't know. I can only guess due to my Family. They are amazing. We're all very different but get on very well. I'm incredibly lucky.

I go through bad phases. I tend to shut down. Just completely close off until I am ready to move on.


2. What's your proudest moment as a pacer? (excluding almost killing me on the way to my 5k pb) How would you rate your pacing skills? (cough)

What are you on about, that was a great moment. Ok so a few bad last few 100 metres but other than that it was all great.

I have paced parkrun a few times now, officially. Still a lot to learn there to not come in slightly too fast. The first time 6 was very stressful. I just can't do km.


3. What's your pet hate at parkrun?

Ha, I have yet to meet a person who tells me how many parkrun they have done and I have never not mentioned I hope you have volunteered. I hate that people take advantage and don't volunteer, especially when they are regulars and the team is calling out for volunteers. It really annoys me.

Porterstown have the right idea. Do a standoff until the roster is filled, good for them.

4. So, now that it's Friday will you be taking a break from work Boards for the weekend?

Check me out. Friday night and online. Unusual I will admit.

5. Is 'North Kildare' really a thing?

What are you on about? Is it a 'thing'. It is where I am from. It isn't Narnia.

6. What's the worst thing any Boardsie has ever called you to your face in real life... (ok, in McGrattan's)

L&£#a, called me a C^%T and then threw my phone at ME! Still reeling.

Kellygirl

aquinn wrote: »

Thank you.

I know you mentioned it but I didn't know when you had it done. No more swelling or concerns, fully trust it? Ski again?

Totally trust it. It’s never a concern. Only the scars bother me a bit and they are worse on the other leg where they took the tendon from to create a new crucial eye. Like you I had to be taught to do everything again, walking, stairs, balancing. I did go skiing the year after which was pure mad. Never mind pain, I was ridiculously nervous. I dropped down a few levels in ski school. I skied here down the hill in our garden during the snow in March - just to say I’d skied at home

annapr

Kellygirl wrote: »

Totally trust it. It’s never a concern. Only the scars bother me a bit and they are worse on the other leg where they took the tendon from to create a new crucial eye. Like you I had to be taught to do everything again, walking, stairs, balancing. I did go skiing the year after which was pure mad. Never mind pain, I was ridiculously nervous. I dropped down a few levels in ski school. I skied here down the hill in our garden during the snow in March - just to say I’d skied at home

I’d say aquinn is stunned into silence by your post-injury skiing exploits

aquinn

Morning,

My week has come to an end.

Thanks all for taking part.

I have a newbie lined up and they will be available at the end of the month.

If you would like to volunteer in the mean time let me know, both here and don't forget to volulnteer at parkrun!

Thanks,

Aoife