Marcus Lawler: 'It's amazing the amount of people that thought I was gone'

At the recent national championships, he ran a 200m indoor PB of 20.74. It bought him his first indoor gold in nine years.

WELCOME BACK: Marcus Lawler of Clonliffe Harriers AC, Dublin, on his way to winning the men's 200m final. Pic: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile.

Welcome back to the stage, please, Marcus Lawler.

The applauding crowd wear a surprised expression. It’s a reaction that in no way surprises Lawler. He knows exactly what they’re thinking. They’re all thinking the same.