Middle of the Pack

Episode 56 of The Middle of the Pack features Mossy O'Mahony discussing his running journey—from parkruns to his first Dublin Marathon—his training routine, coaching support, gear choices, fueling strategy, and plans for this year’s race.As Dublin approaches, Mossy shares setbacks (including a blister that forced a DNF), race-day lessons, shoe and nutrition preferences, and how he balances shift work and coaching youth teams with marathon preparation.

Episode 55 features Charlie "Chaz" Lillis discussing his switch from GAA to running after knee surgery, his rapid progress from 5K to marathon, and his goals for the Dublin Marathon. He also talks about the Malin-to-Mizen fundraising walk for CUH for family friend "Tubbs", training and fueling strategies, shoe choices, and sharing the journey on social media. A real inspiring guy with a passion for sport, health & fitness and having a good time. "Don't forget to listen...Good luck"

Episode 54 of the Middle of the Pack podcast features Maeve O’Hagan describing how she started running during COVID, joined a club, and progressed from parkruns to completing multiple marathons including Cork, Belfast and Edinburgh.Maeve shares training and fueling tips (including gels, hydration and pacing), the mental-health benefits of running, and how club support and community helped her improve and enjoy racing. Stay tuned for podcast merch and gear updates from The Middle of the Pack podcast.

Episode 53 features 23-year-old Paddy McClintock, who ran the length of Ireland over 14 days to raise funds and awareness for his charity Check In On A Mate. He shares his journey from rugby and Ironmans to planning and completing Project Ireland, the logistical challenges, injuries, and the mindset behind ultra-endurance efforts. Paddy explains how the charity grew from run clubs and school talks into a program teaching mental health awareness and peer support. The episode highlights the power of movement to open conversations, how to check in on friends, and where listeners can learn more or get involved. https://checkinonamate.com/ INSTA Check in on a mate. (@checkinonamate) Patrick Mcclintock (@paddy.mcclintock)

Episode 52 is a 13-week, no-nonsense guide for middle of the pack runners preparing for the Dublin Marathon. It covers setting A/B/C goals, building a realistic weekly plan around four key sessions, long-run strategies, strength work, recovery, nutrition, and race-day mindset. The episode focuses on consistency over perfection, practical tips for balancing training with life, and encouragement to trust the process—plus an invitation to share your marathon journey on the podcast. Email me MOTPIRE@gmail.com

Episode 51 captures a day at the London Diamond League where Josh Kerr’s Project 222 mile world record stole the show. The host and members of Eagle AC share voice notes and reactions, reliving the electric atmosphere at the Olympic Stadium.The episode also celebrates standout performances from Irish athletes like Mark English and Sarah Healy, and highlights the camaraderie of clubmates traveling together to witness elite athletics up close.

In episode 50 the host chats with Niamh Walsh about her running journey—from starting in Australia to earning a big half-marathon PB in Cork. They discuss training structure, switching to a coach, injury prevention, strength work, race fueling (Altar Nutrition speed dust and gels), and shoe choices. Niamh also talks about the social benefits of club running, balancing life and training, and shares her Instagram handle (niamhstrainingdiaries) for listeners to follow or ask questions.

Episode 49 of the Middle of the Pack podcast — a mailbag special answering listener questions about why the show exists, marathon training tips (with a focus on gut and nutrition), race-day mistakes, and favorite gear. Padraig shares practical advice on fuelling long runs, evening-race strategies, the challenges of producing a weekly podcast, and encouragement for runners of all levels to keep showing up. EMAIL MOTPIRE@GMAIL.COM

In episode 48 of The Middle of the Pack, Karen Twomey talks running shorts, pacing the Cork City Marathon 10K, and her personal race superstitions. She shares favorite shorts (Lululemon Wonder Trains, Nike Swift), advice on sizing to avoid ride-up, storage options like pockets and belts, and quick fixes for chafing and phone carry. This episode mixes practical gear tips with Karen’s pacing highlights and personal stories, giving listeners useful recommendations for training and race day comfort.   KIPRUN HYDRATION FLASK-CARRYING RUNNING BELT - BLACK Tight shorts - Lululemon Wunder-Train with pockets   Baggy shorts with tight under layer - Nike Swift Dri-Fit   Baggy Shorts with no tight under layer - Lululemon Shake It Out High Rise Short, Lululemon Hotty-Hot Shorts or Nike Running Tempo Dri-Fit   USA Pro Seamless Longline Cycling Shorts Womens superstition race shorts   Advice - I always size up and get the longer length options!

Episode 47 of The Middle of the Pack features Ian O'Brien recounting his Paris Marathon experience, how he manages his running shoes (including buying and selling on Vinted), and answering listener questions about must-have shoes, carbon plates, toe problems, and versatile trainers. Ian shares his top shoe picks, race stories, and practical tips for fitting, sizing, and choosing the right running footwear.   Email MOTPIRE@gmail.com

Episode 46 of The Middle of the Pack features Mary Sweeney reflecting on a lifetime of running — from childhood sprints to dozens of marathons, parkrun camaraderie, and running through illness and loss. Mary shares personal stories about training, fueling, shoes, and the deep sense of community that keeps her coming back to the road.This short, honest chat highlights running as both sport and therapy, celebrating resilience, kindness, and the simple joys of post-run coffee, cakes and shared memories.

Episode 45 of the Middle of the Pack podcast features Laura Garrigan sharing her running journey — from starting at parkrun in 2023 to completing 10Ks, a sub-4hr Dublin Marathon, the Trasna relay and a 24-hour fundraiser where she runs 5K every hour for the Samaritans. Laura discusses training, fueling, shoe rotation and community support, and listeners can follow her progress and donate via her Instagram @laws_fitness. Email motpire@gmail.com

This episode captures the emotion and community of Cork City Marathon weekend — from the yellow tributes to Ellen Cassidy, to pacers, volunteers and runners sharing finish-line stories across the 10K, half and full. It’s a celebration of why people run: connection, support and the moments that matter more than times. #WWECD Email MOTPIRE@gmail.com

Episode 43 of the Middle of the Pack podcast explores the panic, superstition and strange rituals that hit runners during taper week before a race. Padraig offers practical reassurance—trust your training, avoid over-checking injuries, stick to simple carb and hydration habits—and celebrates the courage of everyday runners. A light-hearted guide to staying calm and enjoying race day. Email MOTPIRE@gmail.com

Episode 42 features Sean Lucey, Eagle AC's men's captain, who explains why consistent mileage and easy runs matter more than flashy track sessions. He talks through his injury recovery, marathon and half‑marathon breakthroughs, fueling and shoe choices, and how patience and strength work rebuilt his performance. Sean also shares practical club advice for newcomers — the value of asking questions, making friends, and trusting gradual training to improve times. Email MOTPIRE@gmail.com with any questions....

Episode 41 follows Linda McKeown’s running journey from her first parkrun to completing the Cork half marathon, guided by her coach Kieran. We discuss training structure, mileage, fueling strategies, race-day pacing, and the importance of community support. The episode also highlights the IGBF charity fun runs in Dublin (June 6) and Cork/Mallow (June 20), with details on goody bags, medals, and two free entries for each race, to enter email with your name and mobile number motpire@gmail.com. Closing date : 3/6/26

Episode 40 features Victor Danylyuk sharing his journey from swimming to running and his build-up to the Cork City Marathon. He discusses training changes, working with a coach, and how running improved his fitness after sports-induced asthma. The episode’s key lesson: don’t change fuel on race day. Victor explains his gel experiment (High5 vs SIS), the importance of testing fueling in training, and how to manage heavy sweating with electrolytes and hydration—practical advice for middle-of-the-pack runners. https://www.precisionhydration.com/eu/en/ for a consultation....

Episode 39 of The Middle of the Pack podcast is a London Marathon special featuring the historic sub‑2‑hour finish, The sub 2 hour landmark performances, and Irish standout Peter Lynch’s national record. We also hear an update from Laura 'Muddy Soles' on running in wellies, the FTD brothers’ fundraising mission, and spend most of the episode with Gerry Lynch from Cork discussing his race prep, experience, and fundraising for CUH. This episode blends elite performances, personal stories, and practical race insights for Middle of the Pack runners.   Lauras Link for Unique https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/laura-stenton-slater Jerry Lynch's Link for CUH is in his Bio on Insta

Episode 38 features Owen Wright sharing his running journey—from early runs and joining Watergrass Hill to stepping back into training after family life. He discusses coaching, a hamstring setback and physio, marathon fueling and shoe choices, and his plans for the Cork Marathon. Owen and his wife Fay are fundraising for the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, explaining why the charity matters and how listeners can support them. https://gofund.me/5a039e67b

Episode 37 features Dennis Cronin describing how joining Watergrasshill AC after a Couch-to-5K changed his life. He talks about the social side of running, the supportive running community, and how group runs improved his mental health and friendships. Dennis shares training habits, race experiences including his Malaga marathon, lessons learned about fueling, and why he loves distances like the 10K. The episode celebrates everyday runners and the communal joy of running. Email motpire@gmail.com with any questions or suggestions, or if you would like to come on and share your story.

In Episode 36, Robert McNamee describes his running journey — from youth sports and Gaelic football to taking up distance running in his 30s, training for multiple Dublin Marathons and aiming for a sub‑4 finish while balancing strength work, recovery and group training. He also explains how BuffBarrier was born to solve chafing and blisters with Irish‑made, natural formulas (beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, zinc oxide, arnica, peppermint/eucalyptus), and how expos, online sales and customer feedback are shaping the brand's growth. Email motpire@gmail.com with any questions or suggestions, or if you would like to come on and share your story.

Episode 35 of The Middle of the Pack Podcast breaks down simple, practical fueling and hydration advice for recreational marathoners. Padraig covers hydration strategies, when and how to use electrolytes, and how caffeine gels can boost performance — plus references to experts and resources like "More Fuel You" and past episodes. Key takeaways: drink to thirst, practice your gels and drinks on long runs, reserve electrolytes for long or hot races, and time caffeine gels to get the benefit in your race's later stages. Any Questions email me at motpire@gmail.com

Episode 34 features Karen Twomey’s return from injury, detailing her diagnosis, rehabilitation, strength work, and gradual run-walk comeback. She shares practical coaching, pacing and training insights while juggling work, sleep and race life. Highlights include her first parkrun after injury, pacing plans for the Cork 10K, goals for a Lisbon half-marathon birthday race, and a positive message for everyday runners about racing without pressure and enjoying the start line. Email motpire@gmail.com with any questions or suggestions, or if you would like to come on and share your story.

Episode 33 of Middle of the Pack features Tomás Moore, founder of Step One Socks, sharing his running journey from a tentative 5K to regular half marathons, 10-milers and plans for a marathon. He discusses why he prioritizes enjoyment over PBs, the supportive running community, and how his brand grew — overcoming manufacturing issues, expanding colors and singlets, and collaborating with run clubs. Frank, honest and upbeat, the episode mixes personal racing stories, practical gear talk, and the positive mental-health message behind Step One Socks. https://steponerunco.com/

Episode 32 of The Middle of the Pack dives into Ian O’Brien’s running journey — from starting after a medical scare and taekwondo roots, to coaching, club runs, and an expanding collection of running shoes. The conversation centers on choosing the right shoe for easy runs, sessions, long runs and race day, and looks at brands like Saucony, ASICS and Adidas.Ian shares practical tips on shoe rotation, fitting, trying shoes in specialist shops, breaking in race shoes before race day, and how comfort and purpose should guide your choices — whether you’re a middle-of-the-pack runner or chasing PBs.

Episode 31 of the Middle of the Pack podcast features George Sherwood from Precision Fuel & Hydration. He explains sweat testing, electrolyte preloading, and practical fueling strategies for runners—how many gels to take, how much carbohydrate per hour, and when to use caffeine for best effect.George emphasizes practicing fueling in training, tailoring sodium replacement to your sweat rate, and taking caffeine about halfway through a race so it peaks when you need it most.

Episode 30 features Tara Wilson from Women Who Run Ireland sharing her Donadea 50K story: the short training block, the race-day fueling plan of real food (bananas, Jaffa Cakes, dates) and electrolytes, and how dehydration and salt loss led to late-race cramping. Tara explains her ‘‘real food running’’ approach, how she pre-fuels and grazes during runs, her recovery routine, and encourages more women to try longer events.

Episode 29 features Conor O'Keeffe, founder of Altar Nutrition, sharing his running journey from boxing to ultra-distance challenges — including running 32 marathons in 32 days — and how persistent gut issues inspired him to create a better endurance fuel. Conor explains how he developed "speed dust," how to build carbohydrate tolerance, practical pre-fuel and race-day strategies, and uses cases like carb loading and on-course fueling for marathons, ultras, and field sports. Listeners will get actionable tips on pacing nutrition, increasing carbohydrate intake safely, and where to find Altar Nutrition for more guidance.

In episode 28 of the Middle of the Pack podcast, guest Enda Kiernan shares his running journey from school athletics and Mullingar Harriers to helping launch the first Parkrun outside Dublin in Macroom. He discusses the people who influenced him, his commitment to volunteering, and how running shaped his coaching and role with Cork under‑20s and club football. Enda also talks practical topics like warm‑ups, speed work, nutrition (including Speed Dust/Alter Nutrition), and the strong crossover between athletics and Gaelic football. The episode highlights the value of community, mentorship and giving back to sport.

Episode 27 of The Middle of the Pack features Cian Charlton — entrepreneur, runner, and founder of 35 Vintage, on Fade St Dublin — as he shares his running journey and the launch of his Irish running brand, NegativeSplit.ie They discuss Negativesplit gear, early product launches (the skull cap), design and manufacturing plans, balancing business with training, shoe habits, and Cian’s upcoming trail ultra in Spain( which he nearly forgot).

In this episode episode 26 of The Middle of the Pack Podcast, Laura Stenton Slater—known as Laura Muddy Soles—shares her running comeback, her decision to run the London Marathon in wellington boots for the charity Unique, and the personal story behind her motivation: her son's rare chromosome disorder. Laura talks about rediscovering running after years away, how TikTok and a supportive community helped her reshape her relationship with the sport, the physical and practical challenges of training in wellies, and her fundraising and Guinness World Record goals. Link to Donate 2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/laura-stenton-slater

In episode 25 of the Middle of the Pack podcast, Ann O'Neill recounts how she started running, her journey to 79 marathons, and the viral TikTok clip from the New York Marathon that sparked worldwide attention. Ann discusses training while working as a nurse, overcoming injury and cancer, running low-key marathons across Ireland and abroad, and her plans and dreams toward reaching 100 marathons. A real down to earth conversation between two people enjoying their running journey.

Episode 24 features Conor Friel sharing his return to running, training with Carragline AC, race-day stories from 10Ks to full marathons, and the gear and fueling that keep him going. Conor also discusses living with dyspraxia, fundraising nearly €2,000 for Dyspraxia Ireland, and his plans for upcoming races and travel. A really great episode where we, yet again, celebrate an everyday runner facing everyday challenges.

Episode 23 of The Middle of the Pack Podcast with Kieran McKeown explores his journey from junior track talent to full-time coach and why smart coaching beats endless training. Kieran shares practical tips on warming up and cooling down, avoiding injury, race fitness, sensible marathon planning, and the value of community support. He explains how individualized coaching, week-to-week plans, and knowing when to rest help runners improve and stay running for decades, with real examples of runners who cut minutes off their 5K–half marathon times.

Episode 22 reviews the highs and lows of 2025 and looks ahead to 2026, celebrating everyday runners, recovery, and steady progress over flashy results. Padraig shares stories of injury, resilience, personal bests, and the simple joy of running, inviting listeners to set realistic goals and run with presence and curiosity in the new year. As a podcast celebrating everyday runners we look forward to 2026 a new year, new goals and new Kms...

On this Christmas Eve special of The Middle of the Pack Podcast, returning guests share their running wishlists — from race entries and carbon‑plated shoes to watches, earphones and recovery gear. The episode mixes practical gift ideas (race vouchers, shoes, socks, gels, reflective gear, recovery sliders) with heartfelt wishes for an injury‑free 2026, family time and the joy of running together. Happy Christmas and a heartfelt thank you to all who supported me on this Journey. Ding Dong Merrily.....

Episode 20 of The Middle of the Pack features Ruairi O'Hagan reflecting on his Dublin Marathon experience, the post-race struggle with motivation and injury, and the training and support that got him through. Ruairi also discusses his role as chair of Watergrasshill running club and the importance of community in his running journey. Listen for candid stories about race day drama, recovery, accountability from coaches and teammates, and Ruairi's goals for future races and club growth.

In this episode Cliodhna Ruane shares her moving journey balancing marathon training with devastating family challenges — the loss of her husband to cancer and her daughter’s leukemia diagnosis — and how running has kept her resilient. She talks candidly about recovery after Dublin Marathon, adapting training while caring for her children, plans for future races, and how running provides mental release and strength through hardship. There's lots of silly small talk too in what was a very easy episode to record..

John Calabrese joins the podcast to talk turkey trots, pushing wheelchair racers, and his journey from road races to brutal ultras. He shares fueling tricks, shoe testing, race stories and how running helps him balance family life, caregiving and the highs and lows of the sport. So Buckle up and enjoy the Middle of the Pack podcast Ep18.

Episode 17 features Caroline Coffey as she discusses her transition from corporate life to personal training, coaching busy women, and balancing marathon training with family life.Caroline shares honest stories about race-day emotions, training strategies, fueling, accountability, and how to enjoy food and fitness without extremes.

Episode 16 features Eamon Kearney, who shares his journey from heavy drinking and a near-fatal moment to sobriety and running marathons. After a mild heart attack and confronting severe mental-health struggles, running helped him rebuild his life, reconnect with family, and find purpose. He talks about training, major races like Chicago and Boston, the emotional power of running with his half brother, and how his TikTok account has inspired others to change their lives. Episode 16 is about resilience, recovery, and community.

Episode 15 of the Middle of the Pack features Tara Wilson of Women Who Run Ireland discussing her 15-year running journey, how running helped her heal and keeps on healing, and her work at the Run Hub helping all types of runners through Women who run Ireland. She shares tips on mental training for marathons, the Super Half series and solo race travel, running community stories, winter gear recommendations, and why celebrating everyday runners matters.

Episode 14 of The Middle of the Pack podcast takes you into The Recovery Room in Ballincollig, Cork, where the host experiences NormaTec compression boots and an infrared sauna for the first time. Jerry Lynch explains the benefits—improved circulation, reduced soreness, muscle relaxation, skin and cardiovascular benefits—and how the facility supports both athletes and people seeking stress relief or medical recovery.The episode covers practical booking details, session timing recommendations, pricing, and the private, personalized nature of the services, plus insights into the adjoining private personal training studio.

This episode of The Middle of the Pack captures the electric day of the Dublin City Marathon through the host's finish-line buzz and short voice-note recaps from runners and spectators.Listeners hear personal PBs, emotional moments, crowd and volunteer support, pacing challenges and the community spirit that made the day special — with a follow-up recovery-themed episode coming next week.

Padraig hosts a Taper Week special on Middle of the Pack, exploring ‘maranoia’—the nervous, restless anxiety many runners feel before a marathon. Previous Guests share personal tips, packing lists, race-day advice and how they’re managing rest, nutrition and nerves ahead of the Dublin City Marathon. Short, practical guidance and warm encouragement for first-timers and veterans alike, with reminders to trust the training( the Hay is in the Barn), enjoy the race and celebrate getting to the start line.

On this episode of The Middle of the Pack Podcast Dave Buckley talks about his running journey from school cross-country and soccer to road races and marathons. He shares memorable races (Cork and Dublin), training highs and setbacks, pacing stories, shoe choices, fueling strategies and brutal hamstring cramps that nearly stopped him at the finish. Dave also describes the addictive PB feeling, why he prefers 10-mile races, and his plans and hopes for future marathons. Expect candid race stories, practical tips and plenty of passion for the sport ( and a bit of a laugh).

In this episode Sinead Power, an oncology and palliative care nurse, talks about balancing compassionate work with her life as a back-of-the-pack runner. She shares how the running community, club life and parkrun kept her connected and motivated.Sinead discusses starting with couch-to-5K, marathon training and fueling strategies, coping with grief while running, and why running is about wellbeing and belonging rather than pace or podiums.

On this episode of Middle of the Pack, Karen Twomey recounts her journey from junior success and repeated stress fractures to rediscovering running in 2023, training for marathons, and the injury that forced her to withdraw from Dublin. Karen shares the diagnosis of a stress fracture, her recovery plan, a renewed focus on 10Ks and half marathons, and honest reflections on nutrition and supporting young athletes—ending the episode with a positive, practical plan for coming back stronger. Join Padraig & Karen for a chat about all things Running ( Highs & Lows)

Laura Fleming, a runner and emergency nurse, recounts her experiences working in the medical tents at races and will be  at the Dublin marathon 2025. She describes how hot weather, under-fuelling and dehydration can quickly make runners very ill, and why half-marathons sometimes produce more medical cases than full marathons. This episode covers common race issues—heatstroke, low blood sugar, muscle breakdown, falls from discarded bottles—and practical precautions: hydrate, take electrolytes, fuel properly, write emergency contacts on your bib, and be mindful of shoe choice and training in warmer conditions. Laura also shares personal running habits (morning runs, shoe rotation, recovery stretches) and the emotional side of helping runners at the finish line, offering empathy-driven advice for safer racing.

Host Padraig and guest Gareth Franklin talk candidly about his running journey — from lockdown walks and Couch to 5K, through parkruns and marathons, to the goal of breaking five hours. They cover training, pacing, fueling strategies, race day atmospheres, and the mental challenges of middle-of-the-pack running. Gareth shares tips on hydration, gels, shoe choices, and club running, plus his upcoming races and personal targets.

Episode 6 features Karen Twomey — teacher, personal trainer, TikToker and devoted runner — sharing her return to the sport, race experiences (Blarney, Charleville) and how running shaped her life and career choices. She discusses founding an inclusive run club with interval sessions, gear and shoe preferences, the benefits running has for mental health, and the supportive running community that keeps her motivated. Join Padraig & Karen as they Chat all things running....

Padraig interviews Clodagh O'Neill, who ran her very first race as the Cork City Marathon. They discuss her training journey, shoe choice, fuel strategy, diagnosis of exercise-induced asthma, and the crucial support of pacers and running groups that helped her finish. Clodagh shares practical takeaways for new and middle-of-the-pack runners—listen for honest tips about pacing, training progression, race-day fueling, and the simple advice to "take the next step." And we will get her to run a Park run soon....

Host Padraig talks with Laura Fleming — an emergency nurse, mother of three and dedicated middle-of-the-pack runner — about how running became her lifeline through marriage breakdown, injury and the pandemic. They cover Laura’s journey from Couch to 5K to multiple marathons, training and coaching strategies, balancing shifts and family life, fueling and hydration tips for long runs, and practical recovery hacks (including a surprising plantar fasciitis trick).

In this episode Padraig  welcomes back Angeline and Fergal Murphy to talk  about their Dublin marathon journey — the drama of securing tickets, lessons learned from Cork, and how group training, pacing strategies and fueling (including caffeine gels) are shaping their race goals.

Welcome to the Middle of the Pack podcast. In this episode, host Padraig invites fellow Cork City marathon leaders Angeline and Fergal Murphy to share their experiences leading up to the Cork Marathon and their preparation for the Dublin Marathon. Join us for the first Part of two episodes as we explore the challenges of balancing family life, demanding careers, and marathon training. Discover practical tips and hear real conversations about running within the middle of the pack, with insights into goals, strategies, and the importance of staying motivated. This episode is packed with engaging anecdotes and advice for runners at any stage of their journey. Enjoy!

Welcome to the first episode of the Middle of the Pack Podcast, your go-to source for all things running! In this introductory episode, host Padraig shares his personal running journey, revealing the ups and downs of training, racing, and balancing life as a middle-of-the-pack runner. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned marathoner, this podcast offers practical tips, honest gear reviews, and engaging conversations with fellow runners chasing progress, not perfection. Discover the joys of hitting personal bests, learn about nutrition, gear, and more, all while enjoying the camaraderie of a supportive running community. Tune in weekly for insights into running routines, balancing training with life, and achieving your running goals. Let's keep those legs moving together!