Motherwell Athletics Club - 10 Questions

10 Questions

Name: Joe Hoolaghan (The handicapper)
Place and date of birth: 12 February 1955, star sign Aquarius, Bellshill
Occupation: Skills & Learning Manager for Scottish Enterpriser
How long have you been a runner/athlete? I started running in 1986 to get fit and lose a bit of weight. Retired in 1993 with a bad back after completing one marathon, 22 half marathons and 20 10K road races. Took up coaching for a good few years after that.
What do you enjoy most about running/athletics? I don’t enjoy running any more as it just kills my back but we (Margaret and I – see photograph) do have a bit of fun doing the monthly time trial handicap.
Favourite race/event and PB: I don’t have a favourite race but my least favourite was the Helensburgh Half Marathon in 1993 where I set a Personal Worst after about eight pints of lager the night before. PBs – 1:37:06 for the Loudon Valley Half Marathon and 41:32 for the Uddingston 10K.
Favourite food: Probably Chinese but you don’t get to have a physique like mine by being a fussy eater.
Favourite holiday destination: It has to be cruising. It is the life and Margaret and I have done six so far with another one coming up in June. You are only middle aged once so you just have to make the most of it.
Hobbies (apart from running/athletics): Sampling malt whiskies and my current favourites are Islay malts. I am sure you will find this hard to believe but I do enjoy reading books on management and studying academic things!
Lifetime's ambition: When you get to my age what’s left? I would like to retire early with my big pension (if the scheme hasn’t gone bust) and travel the world.