What does it really take to stand behind the finish line?

In this episode, I sit down with Brian Conroy, co-founder of Pop Up Races, to explore the journey behind one of Ireland’s most recognisable race timing companies.

Brian shares how he went from working as a chartered accountant to building a business rooted in the running community — what that transition felt like, the risks involved, and how an idea slowly grew into something much bigger.

We talk about the reality behind race day — the early starts, the pressure, the moving parts — and what it takes to deliver events for thousands of runners across the country.

But this conversation is just as much about Brian the runner. Coming to running later in life after a background in rugby, he reflects on the races that shaped him, the progression from his first 10K to marathons and Ironman, and what the sport has given him beyond the finish line.

It’s a story about change, resilience, and perspective — and what you learn when you spend enough time watching people cross the line.

In Part 2 of this conversation, Noel McCarron reflects on a life shaped not just by running, but by the people and communities it brought him to.

At the heart of this episode is Noel’s involvement with the Special Olympics and his role in bringing the World Games to Ireland in 2003. He shares the story behind what it took to make that happen, offering a rare glimpse into the dedication, challenges, and belief that drove it forward—and it demonstrates his understanding of inclusion and connection, particularly with people with disabilities.

We also explore a different side of running through Noel’s involvement with the Brew Jogg running group and the friendships and sense of belonging it has given him in later life. As he reflects on turning 70 and marking that milestone in his own unique way, the conversation opens into something wider—about identity, purpose, and what it means to stay connected to the sport across a lifetime.

Thoughtful and deeply human, this episode is less about results and more about meaning—about the miles, the moments, and everything in between

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If you or someone you know has a story that should be told, email YourRaceOrMineIreland@gmail.com

In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, we sit down with Noel McCarron to explore an incredible running journey that began in the most unexpected way. Growing up in Letterkenny with little interest in sport, Noel’s path changed when an inspirational teacher from Tennessee arrived at his school and sparked something that would shape the rest of his life.

From those early days, Noel went on to achieve remarkable success—progressing from a complete beginner to winning U23 national medals and earning a scholarship to the United States. He reflects on his development as a runner in a different era, sharing insights into the training, competition, and culture of the sport then compared to today.

We also explore his early competitive years over shorter distances, the challenges and breakthroughs along the way, and the personal highs and lows that shaped both his running and his life.

This episode closes at a pivotal moment, as Noel steps into a new chapter—becoming a father—setting the stage for Part 2, where the story continues with his stellar work with Special Olympics Ireland and other marginalised people in society, and personal reflections on a event-filled life that shows no sign of slowing down

If you or someone you know has a story that should be told, email: YourRaceOrMineIreland@gmail.com