The shape I’m In: Simon Zebo, rugby player

THIS Sunday, runners of all abilities will gather in to run the Irish race of the Wings for Life World Run. 

The event supports the not-for-profit Wings for Life Foundation, which funds spinal cord research projects worldwide.

It’s a unique race because the finish line catches you. Thirty minutes after start off, a catcher car driven by Irish and Munster rugby player Simon Zebo will begin following all runners.

Driving slowly first but increasing its speed at given periods, the Zebo-driven catcher car is the moving finish line. The winner is the last person to be caught by the car.

“I can’t wait — it’ll be very interesting to see what kind of day it turns out to be. I wanted to get involved because I’ve seen people who have been lucky with spinal injuries but I’ve also seen some unlucky ones,” says Zebo.

Not surprisingly, he says the biggest highlight of his own career is playing for the Lions. “That was a massive honour, something I always wanted to do as a kid growing up. As a rugby player, to play for the Lions is the ultimate. I’d tie that in with representing my country and winning the Six Nations.”

After Ireland’s Six Nations championship this spring, Zebo simply wanted to spend time with family and friends. “I just wanted to celebrate with the people who’ve been supporting my whole career.”

The 25-year-old, whose dad is from Martinique, while his mum is from Cork, says he’s “taken” — he has a Spanish girlfriend, Elvira. “She’s a lovely girl. She keeps me level-headed and on the ground. She really hadn’t a clue about the magnitude of rugby but she’s a great girl, very multi-talented.”

n To registrar for the Wings for Life World Run on Sunday, turn up in person tomorrow, Saturday, from 10am to 7pm in Moran Park House (located beside DLR Lexicon in Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin). Visit www.WingsForLifeWorldRun.com

What shape are you in?

My body is quite tired and sore after the Six Nations Championship. It was a long series and the first time I haven’t been out injured for a couple of months. It was great but it has taken a toll on my body. I’ve got some wear and tear and I need to manage my recovery.

What are your healthiest eating habits?

My girlfriend is a healthy eater and she cooks quite a bit. We eat lots of healthy Spanish dishes and salads. Close to match time, I’d eat more carbs — pasta and rice.

What are your guiltiest pleasures?

Probably white chocolate once in a blue moon — I have to be quite strict. I might have a square once a fortnight.

What would keep you awake at night?

Nothing — I never really get stressed. No matter how bad a situation is, I don’t tend to have sleepless nights. I can sleep no matter what.

How do you relax?

I like getting out and about, enjoying good weather. If it’s a nice day, I’ll go for a walk, have a coffee or take a trip to Kinsale. I like to play a bit of Xbox or go on the PlayStation. I like relaxing with Elvira or chilling out with family.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

I’d like to have Floyd Mayweather because he’s an icon of boxing. I love his confidence, his belief in his own ability and then he goes out and proves it all the time. I’d like to invite Conor McGregor and Pepe, the Real Madrid soccer player.

What is your favourite smell?

My favourite smell is one of my father’s dishes, Chicken Colombo.

What would you change about your appearance?

Nothing at all — I’m very happy with the way I am.

When did you last cry?

Probably when I broke my foot in 2013 before the Lions tour and I missed out on the remainder of the Six Nations and I was convinced I’d ruined my chances to do a Lions tour. Happily, it didn’t turn out that way.

What trait do you least like in others?

Selfishness and people who are judgemental.

What trait do you least like in yourself?

I wish I was less impatient.

Do you pray?

I pray every night — I’d be quite religious. My grandmother taught me a particular prayer when I was quite young — I always say that. I’d also have a chat [with God] in my own words.

What would cheer up your day?

Sunshine.