A club secret is revealed by our latest All Star – Geraldine!

When did you start running?
I started running back in 2005 when a group of us from work decided to do the Belfast Marathon Relay. I enjoyed it so much that I decided to do the whole thing and I joined the Dub Runners in Jan 2006 for some inspiration. I haven’t looked back since!

You’d hardly know it was the Napa Marathon race!

Why did you start running?
To get fit, meet new people and give me something to work towards. I had never been interested in sport at school so was rather shocked to discover that I actually enjoy getting sweaty, out of breath and chaffing in strange places! It has taken me to some far-flung destinations and have made great friends along the way. It also encouraged me to start cycling which opened up a whole new world of pain and wonder!!

EAMS Half earlier in the year (when we could race) with Marie!

What is a typical training week for you?
I try to go to the club on Tuesday and Thursday nights and maybe go for run myself or with a friend another evening. If training for a marathon I would typically do my long run on a Saturday. In the summer months I like to get out for a cycle at least once a week, so may have to sacrifice a run or two.

Geraldine’s description of this photo was simply ‘climbing’!

What is your favourite Dub training session?
Bizarrely, I rather like the fartlek run in the winter. The Sunday run is lovely too and a great introduction to the club, though I don’t get very often. I find the speed sessions tough as naturally tend towards longer runs, but guess I should really focus on them more…

With Ronan at the Muff Glen race!

What has been your favourite race (s) to take part in?
There have been many over the years. In terms of marathons I really enjoyed Napa Valley (where I got my PB!) and New York was iconic. Paris had fantastic sightseeing opportunities and can’t forget Derry for the home crowd and horrible hill at Fahan Street! Tollymore Trail Half Marathon was also a lovely event and surprisingly relaxed.

Geraldine flanked by Joanna at the Tollymore finish line!

What are your running goals?
My favourite distance is the marathon despite all the torture and long training runs. I was supposed to do my 18th marathon in Rome in March but of course that was cancelled due to Covid. Fingers crossed for next year and some normality! I’ve completed 5 of the 6 Marathon Majors and have applied to Tokyo on many occasions but no joy. Guess I’ll just have to persevere and maybe one day get that big fancy medal. I started swimming lessons late last year with the hope of some day maybe doing a sprint triathlon. However, I’m definitely NOT a natural water baby so will maybe just stick to the running and cycling 🙂

Geraldine after completing the maracycle!

Tell us something random about yourself that people might not know!
I’m part of a secret Frenchie group within the club. You know who you are Kathy, Brian D and Kate – whoops did I just give it away?! Quelle dommage!!

Two other facts; I’m actually the Birthday Card Fairy and definitely NOT Ronan’s mammy!!!!