Your Race or Mine

Keith Flynn (KMF Coaching)

Runners are a special kind of people — driven, passionate, and just a little obsessed in the best way possible.  And if there’s one thing runners love almost as much as running itself… it’s talking about it.  This podcast is for those stories — from personal triumphs to the everyday ways running shapes our lives.  Lace up, settle in, and join the conversation.  If you have a story to share email yourraceormineireland@gmail.com Follow at @kmfcoachingireland

Episodes

  1. 3D AGO

    10th - The Courage to Begin: Finding Freedom Through Running

    When Cheryl Auret started running for the first time, she wasn’t chasing medals or finish lines—she was chasing a different life. At 53, living in Co. Offaly, Cheryl’s running journey began not on a track, but on a treadmill in her shed, and a decision to change. Supported by her family and a community who believed in her before she fully believed in herself, she lost over 70lbs and gained something far greater — confidence, control, and freedom. In February 2025, she took another brave step to start, showing up, even when it felt hard. Slowly, she became what she once thought she wasn’t — a runner. Joining her local athletic club transformed everything. No labels. No judgment. Just belonging. Since then, she’s crossed 5K finish lines, improved her parkrun times, completed multiple mini-marathons, and set personal bests that once felt impossible. But Cheryl’s biggest victories aren’t measured in minutes. They’re measured in stronger mental health, pain-free movement, better sleep, more energy, deeper confidence — and the quiet pride of becoming someone she’s proud to be. With the Dublin City Half Marathon and the possibility of future marathons in her sights, Cheryl’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late, never too far gone, and never too small a start. This is a conversation about courage, community, and what can happen when you simply decide to begin. If you have a story to share, contact me on YourRaceOrMineIreland@gmail.com

    51 min
  2. FEB 13

    9th - Running the Simple Way: Lessons from the World’s Best

    In this episode, we’re joined by Colin Thomas — an avid runner, deeply respected coach, and someone who has spent a lifetime immersed in the sport he loves. Colin has coached and advised runners of every level, from complete beginners to elite Kenyan athletes, and his perspective on running is as grounded as it is inspiring. Colin shares what sets Kenyan runners apart beyond raw talent — their mindset, simplicity, motivation, and deep connection to running and themselves. Drawing on over 10 years of travelling to Kenya, he reflects on what he’s learned from coaching there, how it’s shaped his own philosophy, and why many of the most powerful lessons are surprisingly transferable to everyday runners. We talk about consistency over complexity, the value of loving the process, and how running can give far more than it takes when approached the right way. Colin also opens up about how fortunate he feels to make a living from the sport that’s given him purpose, perspective, and community. This is a thoughtful, uplifting conversation for runners of all abilities — whether you’re chasing your first 5k, a marathon goal, or simply a deeper appreciation for why you run. Read Colin's book on all things Kenya Running on the red dust: A firsthand insight into the creation of the world's best athletes from Kenya: Amazon.co.uk: Thomas, Colin: 9798740401096: Books If you have a story to tell contact: YourRaceOrMineIreland@gmail.com

    55 min
  3. JAN 9

    5th - The Making of a National Champion

    In this episode, we dive into the remarkable journey of Martin Hoare who proves that success isn’t about overnight breakthroughs—it’s about consistency, grit, and stacking small gains. Starting his athletic life in GAA, where he spent 15 years building strength and resilience, he didn’t lace up running shoes seriously until the age of 24. A brief flirtation with triathlons followed, but once he committed to running, everything changed. His talent quickly became undeniable—breaking the 2:30 marathon barrier in 2014 and, years later, reaching the pinnacle of Irish distance running as National Marathon Champion in 2022. But this story isn’t just about fast times and podium finishes. Behind the results is a runner balancing a demanding career, three young children, and the everyday pressures of family life. His training isn’t built around perfect conditions—it’s built around reality. From squeezing in sessions to literally chasing the train home, he shows how commitment, creativity, and discipline can coexist with a busy life. He shares why marginal gains, smart training, and having the right mindset and support have been the real keys to his success—and why he believes that with the right approach, anyone can improve, no matter where they start. This episode is packed with insight, motivation, and practical takeaways for runners juggling real lives with big goals. Whether you’re chasing a PB or just trying to stay consistent, his story will leave you believing that progress is always possible—one small gain at a time. If you have a story to share email YourRaceOrMineIreland@gmail.com

    1h 3m

About

Runners are a special kind of people — driven, passionate, and just a little obsessed in the best way possible.  And if there’s one thing runners love almost as much as running itself… it’s talking about it.  This podcast is for those stories — from personal triumphs to the everyday ways running shapes our lives.  Lace up, settle in, and join the conversation.  If you have a story to share email yourraceormineireland@gmail.com Follow at @kmfcoachingireland