10 questions with …..your Chairman

Over the coming weeks we’ll be running a “10 questions with…” series of interviews with your committee so that you can get to know each one of us and maybe even learn a little bit about triathlon, or in this case – who’s good at karaoke!

First up we’d thought we’d better start with the chairman – James Hoare. So James………..

1. How did you get into triathlon?

I read an article which stated that completing a triathlon was a great test of endurance. I decided to give it a try and entered into the tryAthlone which is similar to the DCT super sprint with a short swim. I really enjoyed the race and from there I was hooked. My first Olympic triathlon was DCT and I managed to complete it in a respectable time. After my first year, I joined Piranha and I am still in love with the sport. The friends I have made, the places I have been and the challenges I have overcome have been amazing.

2. What’s your favourite training session?

Track sessions- short and sharp.

They definitely improve my running speed and it is nice to be finished a session in under an hour.

3. What training session do you dread the most?

The bike time trial in Phoenix Park is always a painful experience. It is a challenging and technical course and there is no hiding from it.

4. When not training, how do you like to relax?

TV- I find it a great way to unwind.

5. What was the last book you read and was it any good?

Slaying the badger. A great book about the 1986 Tour de France and the rivalry between Hinault and leMond.

6. What has been your biggest improvement during winter training?

Swimming, I have worked hard to improve my swim and the hard work is paying off.

7. Favorite karaoke song? And who would you drag on stage with you?

Journey- Don’t stop believing.

I would have to drag Bosco on stage just to take the focus away from me!!

8. Whats your favourite triathlon and why?

Kilkee- the course is really tough and it doesn’t allow people to hide. Swim bike and run are equally difficult and you have to be strong across the board to do well.

And there is the little matter of a great night out after the race.

9. Best & worst triathlon related moment?

Best moment- Galway Half Ironman and qualifying for the World Championships in Las Vegas

Worst moment- Caroline Kearney- every year. Still not able to beat Matt Coughlan and given the form he is showing this year it looks like I could be in for another disappointing year!! Having said that, I love the race.

10. Any advice for anyone new to triathlon?

Be patient and aim for consistency. People who get in to the sport and expect immediate results tend to get burnt out and lose interest.

Enjoy the sport not because your times are improving but for all the other benefits it brings.

Thanks James!