Today is a very special day in my sporting life.I have been selected to represent Ireland for the second time this year but more notably it sees me make my debut at World Championship level.To get the opportunity to compete against the best in the world wearing the green singlet will be both a challenge and an amazing experience which I am truly looking forward to.
Ireland have entered a strong men's team for the IAU Trail World Championships in Connemara.
The team is captained by John Byrne, who was first Irish finisher at the Anglo Celtic Plate 100km when finishing third in 7:09:33.
Thomas Maguire, the Irish 100km (7:05:06) and 24 Hour (248.392km) record holder is additionally on the six-person team.
UK-based duo Daniel Doherty, who has a PB of 7:19:29 for 100km, and Barry Murray, who has posted very strong peformances in UK trail races, are also in the squad.
Keith Whyte, another sub-7:30 hrs 100km runner and who recently won the Kildare Marathon, runs in his first world championships.
Paul Tierney, winner of the Wicklow Way Ultra and the new record holder for the Wicklow Way, makes his debut for Ireland.
In addition to the team, trail running legend Eoin Keith will represent Ireland as an individual. Keith is making a comeback after injury and finished 11th in the 2009 Trail World Championships.
John O'Regan, a 24-Hour international athlete, is also entered as an individual.
The squad, which has a representative from all four Irish provinces, will be managed by Tony Brennan and John Collins.
