Any Given Runday

This week on Any Given Runday podcast we have Ironman World Champion, Becky Woods (@beckswoods on Instagram) . Becky has gone from representing Ireland on a European stage and cross country to dominating the world stage in Ironman 70.3 with multiple AG wins, including the European Championships in Estonia 2023 and the World Championships in New Zealand in 2024. 

Becky discusses her journey from swimming, gymnastics, and basketball to her current dominance in Ironman 70.3 events. She shares anecdotes about her transition to triathlons, overcoming injuries, and training during the pandemic. Becky also reveals the mental and physical challenges of preparing for and competing in world championship events, including her recent triumph at the World Championships in New Zealand. Join us for an inspiring conversation with this world champion as she reflects on her past achievements and contemplates her future goals.

06:34 Introduction to Becky Woods

07:26 Early Sports Journey

10:39 Competitive Basketball Years

14:22 Switch to Running

29:40 Injury and Introduction to Triathlon

34:04 First Triathlon Experiences

35:47 COVID-19 Training and Long-Distance Triathlon Training

53:21 Racing at the World Championships in Finland

57:23 Improving Transitions for Better Performance

58:34 Challenges and Lessons from Domestic Races

62:01 The Toughest Race: The Lost Sheep

68:43 Mental Strategies and Race Psychology

72:07 Training and Preparation for the World Championships

76:44 Race Day in New Zealand: Overcoming Doubts

86:22 The Final Push: Winning the World Championship

93:20 Future Goals and Aspirations

98:31 Closing Thoughts and Farewell

You can follow us on Instagram:
@anygivenrundaypodcast

And check out our NEW website:
https://www.anygivenrunday.com/

You can listen to this week’s episode of the Any Given Runday Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and wherever you get your podcasts from

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

This week, we have not one, but two guests on the Any Given Runday Podcast .Our first guest despite losing his sight at aged 10, has gone on to represent Ireland in two sports, as well as becoming a multiple-time National Champion in Paratriathlon & has podiumed on the World Stage with his guide, coach,friend and second guest of the podcast who has competed internationally as a professional triathlete, has a  level 3 triathlon qualifiation and has a masters degree in sports & exercise physiology, Donnacha McCarthy & Sean Husband (@allthewaytola on Instagram). 

Donnacha lost his sight at age 10 but went on to represent Ireland in multiple sports, including becoming a national champion in para-triathlon. Sean, a very accomplished triathlete and Level 3 triathlon coach, partners with Donnacha to race on the world stage. Dive into their captivating stories, their unique training challenges, and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of para-triathlon. From getting to know each other on their first race in Europe to their aspirations for future events, this episode is a deep dive into resilience, teamwork, and the power of determination.

14:43 Donnacha's Journey into Sports

18:04 Sean's Introduction to Triathlon

21:01 Challenges and Training in Triathlon

24:26 Communication and Trust in Training

31:21 Race Experiences and Reflections

48:38 Navigating Race Dynamics and Strategies

50:01 Challenges and Tactics in Competitive Racing

52:09 The Importance of Point Systems in Paralympic Qualification

53:23 Classification and Fairness in Paralympic Sports

61:21 Reflecting on Recent Competitions and Challenges

70:46 Future Plans and Training Strategies

77:35 Looking Back and Moving Forward

You can follow us on Instagram:
@anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, Sean and Eric dive into their experience at the inaugural Dublin City Half Marathon over the weekend. They discuss their feelings pre and post-race, the organisation of the event, their race performances, the overall atmosphere and interactions with fellow runners. 

00:45 Race Day Preparations and Challenges

02:40 Starting Line Feel

04:15 Navigating the Course

08:16 Community Support and Atmosphere

09:46 Mid-Race Reflections and Strategies

14:04 Hydration and Those Plastic Cups

17:54 Running with Headphones

26:06 Pushing Through the Half Marathon When You’re Struggling

28:38 Support from the Dublin Community

31:08 The Finish Line Experience

33:34 Medals, Goodie Bags, and Post-Race Reflections

36:46 Shoutouts and More

47:44 Upcoming Events and Website Launch Date

50:41 Eric Throwing Out a 10k Challenge for Dunshaughlin to a Previous Guest

You can follow us on Instagram:
@anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, we welcome running coach Barry Mullin (@barrym_running_ on Instagram). Barry shares his impressive journey from running his first marathon at 19 to achieving a personal best time of 3 hours and 2 minutes. He discusses the impact of having a pacemaker, his studies in sports science, and offers invaluable tips for runners of all levels. Barry emphasises the importance of consistency, patience, and the benefits of cross-training.
 
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced marathoner, Barry’s insights are sure to inspire and educate.

15:49 Barry's Early Running Journey

17:53 Why Barry runs with a Pacemaker

24:30 Understanding Zone Training

28:12 Marathon Training Insights

37:47 Warm-Up and Interval Training Tips... why Barry's programmes what may be considered LONG warm-ups

42:35 Running in Kenya

45:36 The Mental Game of Marathon Running

48:59 Breaking Down the 10-10-10 Marathon Method

41:29 The Journey to Sub-Three Marathon

59:16 The Importance of Cross Training

53:06 Coaching and Common Misconceptions

67:21 Tips for New Runners

55:20 How to get coached by Barry

You can follow us on Instagram:
@anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

On this week's episode of the Any Given Runday Podcast, Eric and Seán, fresh off the night of celebrating running the Barcelona Marathon and the first AGR Marathon Trip, discuss how they got on and how the Barcelona Marathon compares to Dublin.

Thank you to everyone who trusted us and travelled with us for our inaugural marathon trip! It has been a fantastic experience that has far exceeded our expectations! 

00:53 Barcelona Marathon Experience

01:16 Travel and Organization Challenges

03:55 Expo Adventures and Pre-Race Preparations

09:15 Race Day: From Start to Finish

23:06 Calculating the Distance

23:37 Mental Planning and Confidence

25:02 Navigating the Crowds

27:22 The Final Stretch

28:18 Crossing the Finish Line

29:46 Post-Race Reflections

30:24 Smooth Organisation and Logistics

32:13 Celebrating with the Group

34:55 Looking Forward to Future Marathons

44:17 Wrapping Up the Experience

You can follow us on Instagram:
@anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

This week on the Any Given Runday podcast, we welcome Niamh Fitzpatrick (@niamh.fitzpatrick on Instagram), an accomplished fitness coach, personal trainer, ultra runner, trail runner, and martial artist. 

From running 100K in the Dublin BYU to back-to-back ultras and earning her purple belt in Jiu-Jitsu all in the previous 12 months, Niamh shares how she balances various passions. Dive into her rigorous training routines, her love for sea swimming and yoga, and how she aims for podium finishes. If you're looking for motivation and practical advice on fitness and endurance, this episode is a must-listen!


14:27 Niamh's Journey into Fitness and Travel
17:31 Transition to Trail Running
18:22 Competitive Trail Running and Achievements
20:53 Balancing Training and Recovery
25:42 Sea Swimming and Lifestyle Changes
28:32 Martial Arts and Multisport Balance
32:43 Challenges and Motivation
34:52 Joining the Kerry Way Ultra
36:36 The Barclay Event Experience
37:26 Dublin Backyard Ultra Challenge
40:07 Training and Preparation Insights
43:28 Upcoming Races and Goals
46:06 Reflections on Trail Running
53:07 Advice for Aspiring Runners
55:13 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

In this week's episode of the Any Given Runday Podcast, we dive into the journey of Seán McFadden (@seanmcfadden247 on Instagram), a fitness coach and accomplished cyclist with an impressive résumé, including three Rás finishes, second Irishman Everesting and winning The Race. 

Seán shares his humble beginnings, transitioning from a non-athlete to a marathon runner, triathlete, and eventually a seasoned cyclist. He narrates his experiences in various races, including the brutal Donegal Ultra 555 and the infamous Rás stage race. Sean also discusses his life-changing move to Dubai for 5 years, his involvement in establishing local triathlon clubs, and organising high-profile races. 

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
00:55 Seán's Early Life and Introduction to Sport
03:48 First Marathon and Athletic Club Journey
09:53 Transition to Cycling and Triathlons
13:17 The Rás Race Experience
19:14 Everesting Challenge
25:27 Triathlon Training and Dubai Move
30:26 The Importance of Clubs and Leaving Comfort Zones
31:25 Adjusting to Life in Dubai
32:56 Comparing Sports Facilities: Dubai vs. Home
35:21 The Donegal Ultra 555 Challenge
43:00 The Race: An Adventure Like No Other
45:56 Organizing Races Post-COVID
47:31 The Michael Murphy Mile: A New Challenge
55:26 Upcoming Races and Final Thoughts

You can follow us on Instagram: @anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

In this Any Given Runday podcast episode, Eric and Seán chat with Ken O'Driscoll (@Coached_By_Ken on Instagram), a running coach, ultra runner, and founder of Cherry Orchard Running Club (@cherryorchardrunningclubd10 on Instagram)

Ken, the reason you see all those orange t-shirts at events all over the country, shares his inspiring journey of overcoming addiction through running and discusses the impact of the Cherry Orchard Running Club on the community. He also details his experiences with ultramarathons, Ironman competitions, and the challenges of starting a running club. Ken talks about his commitment to helping others find solace and strength through running and fitness and the exciting future plans for Cherry Orchard Running Club!

06:50 Introduction to Ken O'Driscoll

07:53 Ken's Journey into Running

11:00 First Marathon Experience

13:02 Founding Cherry Orchard Running Club

15:15 Building a Running Community

21:18 Encouraging New Runners

26:40 Ultra Running Adventures

34:06 The Ironman Journey & Training and Lifestyle Commitment

36:16 Hyrox Dublin with 2 weeks' notice

43:17 Cherry Orchard Community and Club Involvement

47:41 Future Plans, Advice and how to get Coached By Ken

You can follow us on Instagram:
@anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

This week on the Any Given Runday podcast we are joined by Fergal Guihen (@Rossie_to_Aussie on Instagram), who is 11 months into a 23,000-kilometre cycling journey from Roscommon to the Sydney Opera House, Australia, raising over €50,000 so far for Northwest Stop Suicide Prevention and Mayo Roscommon Hospice. From overcoming a torn ACL 6 months before taking off to pedalling through the Alps, sandstorms, desert heat and the Tibetan Plateau with temperatures reaching as low as minus 22 degrees! Fergal shares captivating stories of endurance, cultural encounters, bike mishaps and acts of kindness. 


13:34 Meet Fergal Guihen
15:17 From GAA to Endurance Sports
18:46 The Turning Point: Injury and Determination
23:50 Setting Off: The First Steps of the Journey
27:42 Survival and Equipment Essentials
31:41 Cultural Experiences and Unexpected Kindness
42:17 Navigating Borders and Facing Fears
44:32 A Harrowing Encounter in Iran
48:01 Experiences in Afghanistan
39:21 Family Concerns and Support
50:58 Mental and Physical Challenges
56:59 Coping with Loss and Continuing the Journey
58:45 The Toughest Leg: China
64:16 Planning the Route to Australia

You can follow Fergal's journey on his incredible Instagram page:
https://www.instagram.com/rossie_to_aussie/

As well as donate towards his charities:
https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/Rossie-to-Aussie

You can follow us on Instagram:
@anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

In this Any Given Runday Podcast episode, we welcome Suzanne Kenny (@suzanneyoga4all on Instagram), an ultra mountain runner and aerial yoga teacher. Suzanne has represented Ireland twice in European trail competitions, won the Donadea 50K in 2016, and claimed the title thrice at the Art O'Neill Challenge. Join us as Suzanne shares her journey from a varied sports background, including Irish dancing and horse riding, to discovering her talent for mountain running, often winning races. Suzanne also delves into how she incorporates yoga and strength training into her routine, emphasising the benefits of aerial yoga for recovery and overall fitness. Tune in for a fascinating insight into her mountain exploits, yoga retreats in the Wicklow Mountains, and her unique approach to fitness and wellness.

11:30 Introduction to Suzanne Kenny

12:39 Suzanne's Early Sports Journey

13:16 Discovering Mountain Running

23:29 The Art O'Neill Experience

27:59 Winning the Donadea 50K

33:59 The Role of Yoga in Training

39:19 Starting Aerial Yoga: First Impressions & Choosing the Right Yoga Class

41:36 Sound Baths and Relaxation

45:04 Incorporating Yoga into Daily Life

48:30 Yoga Retreats in the Mountains

52:35 Tips for Runners: Yoga and Mobility

57:11 The Benefits of Pop-Up Saunas

61:13 Connecting with Suzanne for Yoga

You can follow us on Instagram:
@anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com