The Leinster Junior Endurance Performance squad camp took place this weekend in the lovely grounds of Gormanston College, Co. Meath. 45 middle distance athletes arrived and checked in with a full schedule ahead for the weekend. Following a light jog and dinner, Liam Moggin was our first presenter who through a lively interactive session had new friends connecting from the start. Liam also focused in on the area of mental fitness and gave some very helpful strategies for a race day plan. Our guest speaker was none other than Niall Bruton, former World University champion, twice Wannamaker Mile champion and Olympic semi finalist. Niall very generously shared his story from his juvenile days, which coincidently brought him to Gormanston for similar junior training camps some years ago! All athletes and coaches were enthral led as Niall recounted his career to date, highlighting the highs and lows and the lessons that were learned. These were shared through a superbly prepared PowerPoint that held a most appreciative audience until close to bed time.
Br. John Dooley was also in attendance and facilitated a most insightful Q&A session which among areas, focused in on the topic of third level experience at home and abroad. The athletes were slow to leave the room, such was the level of interest, choosing to continue the discussion in smaller groups before retiring for the evening.
A light breakfast preceded the Saturday session. A gentle group limber session was guided by coaches Ned Kelly & Noel Richardson. Athletes had a choice between two sessions 4x 5mins with 2 mins rec or a pyramid of 1/2/3/4/4/3/2/1 With 90 secs-2mins rec. All effort was steady state with athletes performing very well on the grassy playing fields. After a tasty nutritious lunch there were two afternoon presentations. AAI nutritionist Orla Walsh the athletes were given some excellent advise on how to improve their daily nutrition and post recovery training plan. Physiotherapist and Irish international athlete Eoin Everard provided an excellent S&C workshop where the group were put through their mobility and flexibility exercises. They were also given a template to take home which encouraged an improved rest and recovery system. After dinner and the busy day it was time to relax. A tricky athletic table quiz confirmed that this is a particularly smart and track savvy group of athletes! Sunday morning saw a easy relaxed long run, followed by breakfast and team meeting which recapped on the lessons learned by our terrific junior Leinster athletes.
A note of thanks to Naomi and the staff in Gormanston for their cooperation and in particular to chef Eddie O Connor & the catering staff who provided such delicious meals during the weekend. Sincere thanks to all our superb presenters and also to the following coaches who made this weekend such a success, Annette Queegan, Lisa Dixon, Geraldine Nolan, Noreen O Reilly, Noel Richardson, Ned Kelly and Joe Ryan. The next Leinster camp will take place after Christmas.
