Pierce O'Callaghan understands more then most what Rob Heffernan has put himself through to reach the top of the World, you’ll find it hard to believe but the likeable Corkman did not win all around him at schools level but built his career step by step since his international debut.

Heffernan who's been a consistent performer in major Championships for many years romped to victory in the 50 k walk at the World Championships in Russia this morning and his friend and former colleague and the last Irishman to beat him ( says O'Callaghan himself with tongue firmly planted in cheek) had a unique view of it as he was judging the race for IAAF.

The picture above is of the Irish team of Heffernan, Jamis Costin and O'Callaghan making their International debuts for Ireland at the IAAF World Cup 1999 in France at which Heffernan finished 70th. Also in the pictire on weither side are Ray Flynn and Bernie O'Callaghan.

We spoke to O'Callaghan before he painted the town Red with his former teammate.