Running for fun

Angela McCann, the first woman across the finishing line in the Cork City Marathon this year, has been running competitively for five years.

“I’d have been a bit of a fun-runner before that,” says the Clonmelbased 41-year-old mum of three.

Her children are aged 18, 10 and five.

“I had a good bit of weight to lose after the third child, so that fed into my taking running more seriously.

“I would easily have lost over a stone at that stage and I’ve maintained it.”

A personal trainer, Angela is married to Mike Fitzgibbon. “He’s not into running but he cycles and he plays soccer.

“I go training with some of the lads from the club — Clonmel AC — who are great for motivating me.”

What shape are you in?

I’m in good shape. I train six days a week. As a personal trainer, I wouldn’t work with more than two clients a day. In terms of my own training, I try to do easy days — six or seven miles of a run — followed by a harder day.

Do you have any health concerns?

I have very good health. I wouldn’t abuse myself, I don’t drink or smoke.

What are your healthiest eating habits?

I’m great for eating loads of fruit and vegetables. I’m a firm believer in real foods, as opposed to processed.

I’m not into supplements either. I prefer to get what I need from fresh vegetables, chicken, eggs and milk.

What would you consider is your guiltiest pleasure?

Chocolate and biscuits.

What would keep you awake at night?

The only thing that would keep me awake is my almost 19-year-old daughter.

I don’t sleep until I hear her door closing at night. Other than that, I sleep well.

How do you relax?

I’m on the go all the time, but it’s not stressed out on-the-go. I like to go to the cinema the odd time.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

Probably Sonia O’Sullivan. I’ve met her and I’ve read her book. She is a fantastic woman.

What’s your favourite smell?

The smell of buns and cakes baking.

Do you cry easily?

No. I can’t remember the last time I cried. Probably it was at a sad film, or at Desperate Housewives, or something ridiculous.

What would you change about your appearance?

Where do I start? I’d like to be taller. I’m 4ft 11ins.

What trait do you least like in others?

Laziness — people like that aren’t doing themselves or anybody else any favours.

What trait do you least like in yourself?

I’d like to be more confident and less shy.

Do you pray?

No.

What would cheer up your day?

Seeing the sun shine.