The site has been live now for 2 months and we have been banging on about how good Adventure/Multi-sport racing. So we have decided to call on other racers to give their opinions and why its so great. First up is Jonathan O’Meara. Jonathan, in 2015 made the leap from the ranks of triathlon to Adventure racing. Since then, he has finished 5th in the National Sport Adventure Series in 2016 and his best overall position was 4th last year at Achill Quest. Along with a handful of top 10 finishes in 2016 as well. Jonathan is currently co-organizing Offaly’s first ever Adventure Race, Off The Bloom, on August 12th. So its safe to say he has caught the bug!
So here goes…
What is your Name?
Jonathan O’Meara
Where are you from?
Banagher Co Offaly
How many races have you done?
I crossed over from triathlon in 2015. I’ve over 15 Ad races done now
When was your first race?
May 2015
Which race was it?
Backstairs 7 steps
Favorite race?
Achill
Dream race?
Off the Bloom Adventure Race – set in the Heart of Ireland
What inspires you?
Ordinary people doing extraordinary things let it be in sport or in their community.
What’s the plans for the upcoming calendar year?
I’ll be doing Killarney Adventure Race in March, My main focus this year is the Coast-to-Coast Adventure Race in May, It’s a two-day race starting in Sligo and finishing in Co Down. I hope to do Dingle and Achill too.
I’m co organizing Offaly’s first Adventure race called Off the Bloom that takes place on the 12th of August so we hope that will be a fixture in the National Series in 2018.
What music are you currently listening to when out?
John Spillane, Waterboys and Anne Lennox in the car.
Runner of choice?
For the mountain – Salomon Fell Raiser
For the road – Asics GT2000
Week before race…what do you do?
A week before a race I usually get a run in on the Monday, a cycle on Wednesday and a short run on the Thursday. Friday I travel down to the race early and get settled in.
Morning of race…what do you do?
I get up early, have a light breakfast, try and get to the loo before I leave the hotel because you are taking your life into your own hands using the race portoloos ?
Check over my bike and all my gear, mandatory kit, cola shots etc.
Any race superstitions?
No superstitions but I always like to be at the start of the race nice and early.
Any embarrassing moments you wish to share?
I tore the ligaments in my ankle at Achill in 2015 just after the beach section and had to hobble back on one leg.
Ideal distance?
40 – 65km
Post-race…do you spoil yourself, if so, how?
Post Race I will have a nice meal out with friends and head to the after party, some are better than others, Achill after party is my favorite
Any funny anecdotes?
A friend of mine who will remain nameless got into a kayak the wrong way around and fell out of it at Achill Roar a few years ago.
Strangest thing you have seen on a race?
I saw a lady on a bike with flowers in a bike basket at one race. She was happy out and fair play to her.
Most beautiful scenery?
Dingle Adventure Race: The view from Mount Eagle is breathtaking if you had time to enjoy it.
Hydration/Gels? Do you use them? Do you use any particular brands?
I use High 5 Zero Electrolyte tabs. And cola gel shots
Sporting Hero?
Mark Pollock.
Advice for absolute beginners?
Adventure Race is all about exploring and discovering new parts of our beautiful country, Don’t get too wrapped up on your race time and enjoy the whole experience.
Make sure to check out Off The Bloom. Places are limited, so register now and do not be disappointed.
Leave A Comment