Jack O’Leary intent on making his own name for himself

His uncle is Michael O’Leary, the Ryanair CEO while his father is Eddie O’Leary, racing manager for Gigginstown House Stud.

Jack O'Leary ran for Iona University, just outside New York City,

It’s the point in an athlete’s career where many Olympic dreams go up in smoke – the post-collegiate void, devoid of structure, support and the backing of any clear system.

Jack O’Leary knows it, acknowledges it, but is actively railing against it. The 24-year-old distance runner has been back home in Westmeath since November, his five years in the NCAA coming to an end last autumn. O’Leary loved his time at Iona University, just outside New York City, but success in distance running is a slow burner, the peak years arriving much later than in other events. The journey there requires time, patience and vast commitment.