A 77-year-old who lives in Co Galway is preparing to take part in his 41st Dublin Marathon this weekend... but it will be a little different than usual.
Peadar Nugent has completed all the Dublin marathons to date, starting in 1980.
However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the traditional marathon can't take place this year - so it has become a virtual event instead.
For Peader, he'll be taking part in the event as usual - but this time on the roads around his local area of Derrydonnell, Oranmore and Athenry.
He's devised a route that will allow him to take part while still sticking to the 5km travel limit under the current coronavirus restrictions.
Speaking on Lunchtime Live, Peader said he's looking forward to doing pretty much the same thing he's been doing every October Bank Holiday for 40 years.
He said: "It's my 41st, and it will be much more difficult than previous years: I will be doing it solo, with neither fellow participants nor the cheering spectators along the route. It will be more or less like a training outing for me.
"Instead of doing a big, long loop I will be doing four laps measured out.
"It's going to be totally different - but this time it will be on a Sunday morning. My neighbours around here... they all know me as the walker, so there may be some people along the route who will recognise me and shout words of encouragement."
Marathon running
Peadar explained he began marathon running almost by accident.
He has been heavily involved in athletics throughout his life, but as a sprinter found the speed he wanted 'deserting' him during his mid to late 30s.
A work colleague suggested they run the first Dublin Marathon on a whim, and decades later Peadar is now trained up and ready for his 41st event.
He said nothing compares to the adrenaline when one passes the finish line and collects the medal and t-shirt.
There will be a medal as usual this year - but it will be posted out after the completion has been recorded.
Peadar also has no intention of giving up the Dublin Marathon just yet.
He said: "If the Lord leaves me my health, and please God he will, I intend to give it another three years - be it virtual or real."
However, he hopes COVID-19 will be under control and he'll be back to the big crowds he loves in Dublin in 2021 or 2022.
He thanked his Athenry AC clubmates for all the encouragement they've given him over the years, and wished all participants around the world a 'very enjoyable virtual marathon' this long weekend.
