An Update From Stephen: Training in Ireland – Building the Foundation for the 2026 Season

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An Update From Stephen: Training in Ireland – Building the Foundation for the 2026 Season

As I settle into this training block in Ireland, I’m finding exactly the kind of environment that pushes an athlete to grow; not just physically, but mentally and strategically. The terrain is demanding, the weather keeps you adaptable, and every session requires intention. It’s the ideal setting to build the resilience and consistency I’ll need heading into the 2026 season, and it aligns closely with my mission of empowering people to move with confidence and purpose, no matter the challenges they face.

For me, there is something about training in Ireland that sharpens you in ways no structured program ever could. The wind has a personality of its own, the rain arrives without warning, and the greenways roll endlessly through fields that feel almost ancient. It’s a place that doesn’t just host your training, it tests it.

Being here right now, preparing for the upcoming triathlon season, has reminded me why I do this. Every session carries a kind of honesty. There’s no hiding from the elements, no shortcuts, no comfort zones. Between my mornings swimming at the University of Limerick and my afternoons on the Limerick Greenway, grinding through long rides past stone walls and open fields, Ireland has a way of stripping everything back to the essentials: effort, discipline, commitment, and heart.

This upcoming season, with bigger races on the horizon, represents far more than competition. It’s a chance to demonstrate what resilience can achieve, to honour my journey as a Veteran and para‑endurance athlete, and to inspire others facing their own challenges. Ireland has become the proving ground for that mission. The tougher the conditions, the stronger the growth, and I’m leaving every session here more prepared, more focused, and more determined to make this season count.

This material does not constitute medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. Please consult a physician for specific treatment recommendations.