John Creane: London Irish AC, Arthur Lydiard & Time on Feet

In this episode of The Final Split, I sit down with former Irish international runner and coach John Creane to explore his background in running and the remarkable story of London Irish Athletics Club.

Founded in 1969, London Irish became far more than a running club.

Rooted in London's Irish community, it developed into a formidable force in British athletics, with athletes including future Olympic champion Linford Christie, Olympic finalist Ade Mafe and a host of Irish internationals wearing its famous green and black vest.

John takes us inside the club's glory years — the characters, rivalries and races, and the extraordinary influence of John Dorgan, the Cork man he describes as London Irish's own "Alex Ferguson".

We discuss John's own running career and his Time on Feet coaching business, including the enduring influence of legendary New Zealand coach Arthur Lydiard and why aerobic development, consistency and patience still matter in an increasingly data-driven sport.

A conversation about running, identity, community, coaching and a remarkable athletics club that deserves to be remembered.

Connect with Time on Feet on X @LydiardsWay and instagram @timeonfeetrunning

John's running CV

Clubs
Finn Valley AC, London Irish AC, South Kent Harriers, Folkestone AC, Corby AC, Kettering Town Harriers, North Belfast Harriers.

PBs

• 800m 1.58
• 1500m 4.01
• 3000m 8.29
• 5000m 14.41
• 5m 24.31
• 10m 50.50
• Half Marathon 68.10
• Marathon 2.37

Honours

• Irish Masters XC 2007/2008
• Connacht XC Champion 1997
• Southern Inter County 5000m Champion
• London Colleges XC Champion
• Team medals at Irish Novice/Intermediate/Senior XC