Sam Donegan

For this one we meet a lady who has made a decision to grab life by the throat embracing a new lease of life.

Have a read and meet Sam.....

Name : Sam Donegan

Age : 50

Married : To Sylvester, we have 2 boys, Noah and Elijah

Work/School/College : HSE

How long have you been a member of Menapians AC : Since 2019, when I completed the couch to 5k

Interests & achievements outside athletics : Crafting, especially making cards. I have a crafting cabin named No 44 (after my nans house number ). I love walking my 2 dogs Cooper and Gizmo. Playing Gaelic for mothers and others with Clonard/Vols. I have an extensive collection of miniature clocks and silver spoons.

My most relaxing moments are when I am baking. I love socialising, and I talk enough for the whole of England!!

Events you have competed at : My 1st county race was this year in Kilmore.I also ran the Rosslare 10k, and Wexford 10k

Favourite event : All of them

Least favourite event : None, just loving running

Biggest athletics achievement : Finishing a 10k without stopping and still having a smile on my face when crossing the finishing line

Other athletics achievements : Being super proud of myself surviving hill training at the council offices

Do you hold any records : Coming last in races!! ..and I really don't mind...I could be sitting on the sofa and dreaming about running .. instead, I am doing and enjoying it!

Favourite moment of your athletic career : seeing Noah and Elijahs faces of excitement when I finish a race

Favourite track you have competed on : I have never run on a track

Who has been your inspiration both in athletics & outside athletics : in athletics, all of the menapians club (corny, I know, but it's true).Outside athletics, my best friend Polly and a very deat friend friend Tasha

Favourite food/drink : This had changed over the last year as I have to eat so much protein. However, since childhood, my all-time favourite food has been pickled onions dipped in marmite. My boys would tell you I am addicted to twister lollies! My favourite alcoholic drink is Jack Daniels

Post training snack : Banana and protein bar

Some unusual facts about yourself : in 1997, a shot was fired at me in Hong Kong by the Chinese army when I tried to scale a wall into an old English army base. Being voted Physiotherapist of the year by my colleagues. I love trying a variety of food, some have been very strange including sheep's eye,chicken feet, snails and snake....just to name a few!

I love spending time with my family, especially being outside and active....I am very grateful for a second chance of life...believe and achieve!!