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'Retro running is an ancient art'

MY RUNNING LIFE: Garret Doherty (34), is aiming for the 10km backwards (or “retro running”) record at the Dublin Bay 10km today…

Mon Aug 6 2012 - 01:00

MY RUNNING LIFE:Garret Doherty (34), is aiming for the 10km backwards (or "retro running") record at the Dublin Bay 10km today, and again at the Focus Ireland Port Tunnel Run on Sunday

When did you start running and why?

I started cross-country in school. My dad, mum and brothers were fit.

Why did you start retro running ie running backwards?It must have been a spiritual blessing. I turned to face the sun after coming upon a sheltered, darker park in Fairview Park, and just kept going – backwards.

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Why do you think everyone should do it?Because it makes sense. Because I have discovered its amazing benefits and want to share these. It's an ancient art, I am merely helping its rediscovery.

Are there many retro runners in Ireland?I would say 40 practising now, but there are more each day as they become inspired by my passionate and influential videos.

Where's your favourite place to run?Five Fingers Strand in Malin, Co Donegal.

What's your proudest achievement?Completing the Dublin Marathon backwards and becoming a world champion over three kilometres in Austria two years ago.

What are you training for?Malin to Mizen in reverse, the retro running world championship and to run for my club Crusaders.

Are you a morning or evening runner?Just like I am both a back and front runner, I am a day and night runner.

What keeps you going when things get tough?The crowd, and adrenaline.

What does your average weekly training consist of?Two speed sessions in Irishtown with my club. Two longs runs, a hill session and race. I also run barefoot and in deep water.

Good or bad diet?Paleolithic diet.

Do you have a coach?No, I am self-coached.

What do you wear on your feet?Vivos or Vibrams.

Do you listen to music when running?It defeats the purpose. When running backwards it's not needed.

Ever been chased by an animal?No, but my backward running should come into play.

Any niggling injuries?Not since I started retro running. I've fallen three times, though.

Favourite running tip?Run reverse at least 20 per cent of the time. Leave the watch at home – learn from within.