Beijing Diary Number 13

It's all over the day after the night before. The Beijing Games comes to a close as spectacularly as it began. Some stats and reflections - a staggering 21 world records were set in the Water Cubes swim pool but no one will remember that in years to come and it's one individuals fault, yes, Michael Phelps and few can complain. Interesting that in winning 8 gold he prevailed in two by 0.01 sec - by the skin of his teeth or more like the tip of his finger.

In the national stadium it was Usain Bolt who stole the show with equal doses of blinding speed and youthful exuberance and he becomes the poster boy and we will have to wait for another occassion to see the 400m record fall to the Jamaican.

Then there was the Chinese leading the medal tally and in a sense the crumbling of the US, not since 1992 has the Americans not led the medal table. So we are living in a post America world and our neighbours, the British, had a great games but not in terms of medals in athletics. Finally always remember there are no winners without losers and for every gold there are silver, bronze and also rans. Great victories are built upon the disappointment of others. Close doesn't cut it. As China's olympic badminton champion Lin Dan put it "Competitive sports are cruel". Queen's WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS sums it up time and time again at major events - "No time for losers Cause we are the champions of the world".

And what of Ireland, a small island off Europe, from these Games. People will remember the three boxing medals and in time little else. Those of us in athletics will remember our particular story, a story of improvement yet of disappointment with four athletes in finals and three top 10 finishes. Improved from Athens one top 12 and Sydney only Sonia really. The other aspect ofcourse, the potential of what is the current squad a group of athletes capable on a good day of making six global finals so the sport is on the up. Yes there are always improvements that can be made in terms of individuals and round structure and development for the future and therein lies the challenge for the Board of AAI and the various committees. There are so many dedicated people in our sport that feel passionately about it that I am encouraged that we will continue to improve with the help of the Sports Council.

For me just looking forward to a journey that touches down in Derry tomorrow and i don't care whether its raining or not and straight into organisation of annual Schools cross country. A meeting at Finn Valley in recent years that normally attracts 800 young athletes. That's October 1st and 3rd and thereafter another cycle of domestic underage, senior and masters athletics.

Finally, I had a good management team with me here and that's vital as it has been back at home in Valley. The coaches, the committee people, I have been blessed with excellent support that has resulted in the unique situation that is Finn Valley and I have always drawn on their goodwill when tackling the Irish leadership position. So it's back to basics, the Beijing olympics but a memory in the weeks and months ahead but what a memory. Well done China.

Patsy mc Gonagle
Senior/Olympic team manager
Athletics Ireland
0872226112
http://www.finnvalleyac.com

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Beijing Diary Number 12

Days of contrast. Yesterday, an aggressive performance from Olive Loughnane (pictured) in the 20k walk, 7th, outstanding right up there and eating them on the final few kilometres. Today, in the 50k we lose Colin Griffin from Ballinamore after 18k - disqualified - shattered and have just come from talking to him. I have no doubt he will return to Italy to train come October and live to fight another day.

Jamie Costin from West Waterford, also 50k, was preparing for the olympics in Athens 2004, when I got the call in a training camp in Cyprus that north of that city when a lorry came round the corner, wrong side of road, and wiped him out. He was flown home by air ambulance, lay on his back for months, and what resillience to come back qualify for this having qualified in Leamington last year, an event I flew over to have a look at. He struggled towards the end but got there and is back on his feet tonight after a struggle in his event to finish. There are many such stories of endeavour in sport, people overcoming the odds to acheive or simply to compete. That's how it is and really it just underlines once again for me regarding the children in Finn Valley - they need to want to do well themselves to be part of something, etc. So you can understand when I lose the head when many can't organise themselves to attend training Sunday mornings. I always have felt that is the acid test, the other aspect of life that is underlined time and time again. Just not here at this time is discipline and hard work. I noticed a fella with a a sign yesterday which read "free Hug" and I thought what a brilliant idea. Never witnessed that approach before. The word hug came to mind when I thought of training, too much hugging going on and not enough work so the man says. What man? Yer man Patsy. I know I know I know, there is the human factor of friendliness etc but let's adopt a no nonesense approach. How and why did I start on about this, maybe it's because it's nearly time to go home and I look forward to no prisoners being taken in the months ahead. Maybe, let's see.

I talked to Alistair this afternoon, came round the corner, he is sitting relaxing on the grass. Well what are you going to do about this 5k tomorrow night? He is all set for top 8, in good form and will talk a little more in depth tomorrow. I will bring him to the track, be in his ear, not over cook it and let's see where it brings him. Alistair has enjoyed his experience with us. This time the training camp, etc. and when he did an interview after his 5k heat the last night, he did it without the knowledge of qualification. Greg Allen, RTE, let me have a listen to it today when we were both hanging around. It was such a sad insight of a young man who lives in a US city, is lonely and dosen't know where to turn. I talked to him about that today and again invited him to come live in Ballybofey for a period as I have done before. We will see if he ever does decide to pay us a visit. I left the village for the first time yesterday in the company of Max Jones, who finishes his contract with the team after this. Went to a market, it was just too busy and ran out of it practically. Not so good, 'cause need to get some presents. Max who is Head Coach has been marvellous company on this trip. And just before I forget, who did i meet at the market but Darren O'Dea and Grainne O'Dea from Raphoe. Darren works for Manchester United and Grainne for Richard Simms and no matter how long it has been since we last spoke we seem to just pick up the conversation as if it was yesterday. In my position in Finn Valley you come in contact with so many people, some appreciate the efforts you make and realise the important impact it has been on their lives, others and it takes many years to get used to it just meet you as if they never set eyes on you ever.

And that brings me to respect at community level and that of course is as important at this level. Interesting if people relate to you with respect, you simply will them on to success. The reverse being you remain professional but do not have the same reaction for those that do not show respect. I am a wild man for respect and attitude. I think you will understand. Did not go to the track tonight, just catching up on laundry and you will be pleased to know they wash your clothes here and have them back in 12 hours. What else can I tell you? Oh yes the canteen which houses five thousand people at any one time stays open 24 hours. Hard to beat that but let me quickly add that I have watched my eating as you could eat yoursely into oblivion if you so chose.

What's the buzz today? Well, unfortunately it's the horse but it does not impact a lot on the morale here as the equestrion events competition are in Hong Kong. Hopefully all being well I'll be on a flight back into Derry Tuesday night and back pacing the track at Valley (pictured) Thursday . Finally, have got emails and messages from Valley people all around the world. Just to say I appreciate each and every one of them. Will send one last diary posting in next few days. Thanks for being with me through this format in the recent weeks, it has been good for me.

Patsy mc Gonagle
Senior/Olympic team manager
Athletics Ireland
0872226112
http://www.finnvalleyac.com

(PLEASE reference www.finnvalleyac.com if you decide to use content from my diary. Thanks for your continued support)

Beijing Diary Number 11

"Thats what we do baby" - the words of Usain Bolt as he really went for it just now in the stadium and broke Michael Johnsons record. 19.30, what a performance and what a reaction an hour earlier having returned to warm up I saw him acting himself, rolling around, when pretty much everybody else was trying to remain controlled. He is a one off a complete natural. After his 100m victory, the formalalities over, Richard brought him over to the apartment which he has rented for the duration of the Games right outside the village gate to meet up with his mother, and he is really a natural in every sense. Down to earth, so good to report. (See BBC report Bolt's Irish connection)

Thomas Chamney coped grand in the 800m and then there was Alistair (pictured), boy did I want him to qualify for final. Warm up went well, was in his ear telling him we have been down too many tunnels in recent years and it did not work. He seems in control, goes about his warm up, all okay and its time to walk the walk. To the check in, it's like going to be shot if you are not ready. Anyway, off we go and the words are it's a race just like any other, get in there and engage. He handled it well, qualified, a massive boost for this young man and I am delighted. Simply put, I have become very close to him in the good and bad days over the last few years around the world. Tonight he is one of 2 white men in the final. Paul Hession did really well in the 200m and is top 10 in the world coming out of here. He takes responsibility for himself, no crap.

Just took a call from Newstalk on the olympic council having a go at the sports council. I nearly took the head off the fella back in Dublin telling him we the athletes didn't wish to be involved in rows, etc., and I was fed up with this crap every games. We have a task here and it's about competing what ever way it goes. Think he was sorry he rang. I had the same from RTE earlier looking for controversy. They have too much time on their hands and a good row would suit them great. Then for the next 4 years nobody in the media gives a damn except the dedicated athletics media. Sorry to sound so exasperated.

Tomorrow morning Olive Loughnane is in action and we have strong expectations, let's see.
Trying to get my head round how we can improve and I do have a strong plan but the question is will it get support or will personal interests mess it up, mess up the aspirations of the young and not so young athlete for another period of time. It rotates round a real high performance structure with a support system. Not unsimilar to how the boxers operate and they certainly have laid down a clear marker.

Interesting how the print media and television are chasing Richard now, so many calls from back home wanting to speak to him. He had the winner of the 400m women last night the British girl. Was talking to Vivienne Cheryiuot the Kenyan girl that ran the Stephens day race at Valley. Look out for her in 5k final and she had been unwell after that through January-April, so really encouraging to see her mixing it with Ethiopians. Fingers crossed the Valley 5k winner can get a medal. (Pictured: Vivienne and me at Finn Valley, St. Stephens Day,2007)

Argentina beat Brazil in the soccer men, about 70,000 in attendance, and yes Ronaldinho did play. Seemingly they can use a small number of players over 23. My mistake.

Thank you to everyone for texts and messages, its very encouraging because believe it or not it gets lonely here particularly if you have a bad day in competition. Boxers are doing admirably as no doubt all at home are aware. We do not get to the bouts but hoping maybe later in week to go along.

Patsy mc Gonagle
Senior/Olympic team manager
Athletics Ireland
0872226112
http://www.finnvalleyac.com

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Beijing Diary Number 10

Managing a sports team when all is going well is the place to be but the other side was the last 2 days. Sunday night in the stadium was disappointing and then today. Early morning David Gillick and Eileen OKeefe fail to qualify then along came Paul Hession (pictured) and did the business in round 1 of the 200m to keep the day alive. So we return to the track tonight with the Athenry medical student.

This morning was also memorable as when the Chinese favourite in the 110m hurdles, Liu Xiang, failed to race due to injury. You could see the disbelief in the people, just in shock, all 80,000 of them. They had previously minutes earlier got worked into a frenzy to welcome him on to the track. He was along with the Cuban, the pre race favourite, and is the biggest sports star amongst 1.3 billion people. I will never forget the reaction and the silence.

Talking about big stars on the world stage. In the village is Ronaldinho the Brazilian soccer star, here to boost the Brazilian team who play neighbours Argentina later. He is not elegible as you need to be under 23 for olympic soccer and on the Argentinian team is Messi. Noticed Nadal the spanish tennis player and gold medal winner at a security check earlier. Federer was about a few days ago but is gone now after his early exit. The olympics creates a special multi sport mix, the rich from some sports and the rest, but all chasing the same thing, a medal or a performance. (Pictured: Ronaldinho & Messi)

Spent a while with Richard Simms in the stands this morning. His man came through 200m preliminaries okay and he was outlining how down to earth and normal Bolt is. That's not always the case with elite athletes regardless of sports.

Back to the computer. Relieved a class run from Paul Hession. Into the semi now after round 2 victory. Here is a well grounded young man, knows the task and has it pretty well sussed. Let's see what tomorrow night brings. For Paul to make final would be unbelievable, no white men make sprint finals. Simply, if you look at it, all the sprint finalists are from a genetic pool that were taken as slaves from West Africa many moons ago and now are Caribbean, African or US. That's the way it is, have a look at final start lists for 100m/200m. One interesting aspect of competition and the evaluation of same is that some athletes will internalise, be self critical, and be determined that they will use the experience to further improve. These are normally the more successful athletes. The other type of athlete is the one that pretty much looks round to see who or what they can blame the performance on should it be bad. Such is life and the challenge that comes with being a manager.

Patsy mc Gonagle
Senior/Olympic team manager
Athletics Ireland
0872226112
http://www.finnvalleyac.com

(PLEASE reference www.finnvalleyac.com if you decide to use content from my diary. Thanks for your continued support)

Beijing Diary Number 9

Just back in from marathon. What a happy enjoyable experience it was for Pauline Curley. Firstly the weather is about 20 degrees so no problem there and she exploded into the stadium with such energy, waved her way through the lap to the 70,000 Chinese in there from early morning, hands raised at the end and kissed the ground A very emotional meeting with herself and the team management when she came out to meet us, interviews complete. Have to say relieved because different conditions could have spoiled the experience and these days and this morning will live with her forever.`(Pictured: Pauline Curley)

Last night sure there never ever was anything like it in history before. Usain Bolt breaks the record, taking it easy in the final stages devastates the field a pure natural. And he is over to his agent and manager, Finn Valley man Richard Simms, pulls him out of his seat and celebrates also with Grainne O Dea, Raphoe, who of course works for Richard. And there is Marian and physio Jess. What a thrill and boost for the Milford man and no doubt Enda Doherty who has been involved in London with this team prior to departure to Jamaican training camp. He will have been jumping with delight in Lurgybrack. A massive boost for Richard who began his athletics at Royal and Prior per the influence of Michael McGranaghan, a teacher in that school at that time and as they say the Milford man ran with the opportunity from that point on. Nothing fazed him.
We are all so proud of him, of Marian and Grainne and their involvement at this level with the biggest global sports star on the planet at this stage and now for the 200m, the title, and possibly Michael Johnson's world record. (Pictured: Ricky & Usain (lighting) Bolt, Olympic Champion & World record holder (9.69))

Will grab an hours sleep and head to stadium once again for our evening session. Roisin McGettigan whose entire family connection are from Kilmacrenan lines up in Steeple final , hopefully a new Irish record. Finally, Mark Connolly texted in the middle of the night to relay the news from Croke Park re:Tyrone. A happy Aghyaran Man.

Patsy mc Gonagle
Senior/Olympic team manager
Athletics Ireland
0872226112
http://www.finnvalleyac.com

(PLEASE reference www.finnvalleyac.com if you decide to use content from my diary. Thanks for your continued support)

Beijing Diary Number 8

The weather is the topic everywhere. Here it's such a pleasant surprise not anything like we dreaded. Sure it's warm, in around 30 degrees and the humidity is bearable. Long may that continue. At home i believe its horrible.

We are into the action, yes a really strong start from Roisin Mc Gettigan and the attitude she brings to a race is really encouraging. Not overwhelmed anymore by this scene as she explained to me when I picked her up from the finish area last night. So she's in tomorrows final.

Fionnuala Britton gave it her all, a seasons best, and in the years ahead we may see this athlete in a marathon come London. Alistair was in a slow 1500m which kicked in a last lap, 51 secs , which he was unable to handle but I was encouraged by the manner in which he engaged and if he can clear a niggling hamstring injury by next Wednesday do not write him out of the script.

Up early this morning, I should sleep. In the warm up area for a 9 am start with Robert Heffernan, as he wishes people to call him and isn't he right. That's what his mother christened him. An athlete competing in an event such as this is up to eat and prepare at 6 am and in the case of Pauline Curley tomorrow it's a 7:30 start, up and about at 4 am. Put that in your pipe and smoke it . The walk went really well, 8th overall, a tremendous result. His reaction I would sum up as satisfied, but slightly disappointed. Which is the way to go as at 15k you could have thrown a towel over the leaders, including Robert, but when the boot was put in at that point the field was scattered. This guy is 30, good enough to stake a claim for major Games medals all the way to London.

Joanne Cuddihy is a story of survival. Competed at just after noon in the 400m, has coped with injury since April and this beat her. As a competitor capable of making the final it did not deter her from going to the start line to claim her olympic spot which she clearly deserves. Of course there were tears. Joanne is capable of winning the European championship in Barcelona 2010 should she decide to pursue that goal. As medical studies that have been put on hold need to be addressed. That's it on the competitive side.

Three boxers still closing in on medals as I type this and exciting days ahead in athletics hopefully. The time will fly now. Was sitting in the canteen early today, you will imagine that I never leave this canteen, when along came Michael Phelps. Now he didn't come over and say how are they all at Finn Valley, nor indeed did he say is Neil Martin and Patsy Doherty still running, but just to watch him calmly go about the start of another day was interesting. They come in all shapes and sizes. From absolute giants from the world of volleyball, basketball, etc. ,to strong weight related guys, to small people most likely gymnasts. 10,000 of the most talented people in the world in one place at the one time, Beijing.

Talking of Beijing I have never experienced anything like this facility, the stadium, the warm up, and ancillary facilities. Thought Sydney was going to be the best ever, now it's a script that I will have to rewrite . Walked back from the stadium last evening very interesting. London and any future olympics will have a lot to do to equal this in so many respects.

Its the nature of the animal I suppose that I am beginning to consider how can we improve our programme back at home in a changing world to prepare for not just London but beyond. The minister visited the village the last day and there is certainly a serious onus of responsibility on his shoulders to fight for a strong budget for sport in a depressed economy. And on the Sports Council, who are represented here by olympic medallist and CEO John Treacy, that they get clear value for money for their investment in sports groupings. (Pictured: A long way from Ballybofey! Pierce O Callaghan and Patsy at IAAF technical meeting)

Finally one of my coaches here is Anne Keenan-Buckley, who as a young girl I remember on a Ballyfin team coached by Jimmy Finn. My memory for those early days is vivid, that used battle with Finn Valley. Indeed I have one clear memory of a race in Maynooth, might have been 1974, the national intermediate, a thrilling contest and Susan and Bridgeen Doherty, Doreen Gallagher and Mary Ann Mc Gowan would have been on duty for Valley at that time. Anne has since continued to capably manage the national cross-country teams and competed in Soeul olympics 1988. So it's certainly encouraging having her here and a link with a world of cross country long ago.

Sorry to hear the bikers were washed out of it as events and people related to events is the future of our area bringing people in in all its different guises. Hopefully it's something either the Finn Valley community or the Donegal County Council will actually do something about at some point, namely the appointment of a events manager to lead and develop same. Looking forward to getting this job done, hopefully with a successful outcome and straight into training for the winter months, all hands on deck.

Patsy mc Gonagle
Senior/Olympic team manager
Athletics Ireland
0872226112
http://www.finnvalleyac.com

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Beijing Diary Number 7

Let the action begin. Just picked up the start lists for Friday's competition and only then do you realise the enormity of the challenge event on event. You sure need to be in the form of your life to survive here. Sitting in a small room, only myself a chinese athlete watching the tv. Gearoid Towey the rower on the internet here as well. We briefly discuss his thoughts on the rowing lightweight fours semi final tomorrow in which he competes. Remember he also is one of those guys that has chased a dream forever, as has Eoin Rheinsich the canoeist 4th yesterday from a country that does not have a canoe slalom course. You need to be a special person to overcome those odds.

Talked to Billy Walsh, the boxing coach , on my way in to this area. He was overseeing Paddy Barnes doing a workout in the open in front of our apartment. I remarked you are doing well Billy, to which he responded, "Aye but we have no medals yet", and of course he is right.

Came in here through Tokyo last night, boy that was an ordeal. Turned up at China Airways with my documentation, as did the athletes, but they cannot find Patsy on the roster. The athletes are okay, but what now? Got to get outa here. Ran like never before, boarded a bus to another terminal, the time is getting tight. Now for another option, but there is a Jal flight to Beijing but its going now. Right what gate? Will never forget the number 71, the seconds ticking away and yes got the plane but it came so close, had nearly to chase it down the runway. Relief. What a relief.

Cannot wait now, this waiting is hard to deal with and it's of course a similar story with the athletes. Feel we got the timing of our arrival in here right so should be okay. The athletes mindset changes when he/she arrives in but therein lies the challenge to remain in control not to let this Olympic thing do your head in.

Michael Phelps is the biggest story globally right now but everyone here has a perspective their own personal perspective . Many will leave here fulfilled, others devastated, others with the experience and motivation to put the head down, and for many, in a lonely world train to acheive in London. That's what makes sport such a thrilling exercise, a human dynamic challenge that in my opinion makes the world a better place as these people raise the tempo.

Had an interesting email from Paddy Harte, Raphoe, enquiring about a James Duffy that won the Boston marathon in 1914 in a time of 2-25 01. Incidentally killed in World War II. In 1915 there are two James Duffys on Donegal roll of honour from that period both killed in action. Can anyone shed any light on this? It's an interesting Donegal story if it emerges as such.

When you are away like this you begin to think of the next challenge and for me its to get all at Finn Valley back to training to a routine, in fact those that are serious about the months ahead should begin to log miles right now to get ahead of the opposition. All set for the winter so old and young. Big weekend at Valley with the return of the bikers, hopefully the weather will hold. Last year when I was dealing with the heat in Osaka, back at home it was rain and plenty of it making life difficult. And so as Patsy Mc Gowan would say "talk at you" in a few days as the story begins to unfold.

Patsy Mc Gonagle
Senior/Olympic team manager
Athletics Ireland
0872226112
http://www.finnvalleyac.com

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Beijing Diary Number 6

Last day in Japan. Training complete for today. Just had a table quiz and now rattle out a few thoughts before heading tomorrow morning to the big Smoke -- Beijing.

This was an interesting day that went something like this. The morning session was going to be about 400m runner, Joanne Cuddihy, struggling with injuries for months really. She was going to have a full blown 300m paced by 800m athlete Thomas Chamney and therein would be the answer re:going to the start line. Nervey stuff. She is on the line ... the phone rings ... it's Brendan Mooney of the Examiner enquiring after Joanne's fitness. My answer, "just hold it there on the line and I'll give you the answer in less than a minute ". She attacks, maintains momentum, holds it together and does the business. So Brendan she's in one piece, she starts the race in the Birds nest or as someone else referred to it as the Crows Nest. She is on the plane tomorrow. Delighted for her, its a shame she has lost so much real training time but has cross trained continuously without any indication of frustration from her.

The afternoon session was noteworthy for 2 things. Alistair Cragg who doubles up in both the 1500m and 5k hit out 10 x 200m in 26 seconds low with 90 secs recovery. His head is in a good place just now. Let's pray we can hold the picture for another week. Then there was Derval O Rourke needing to get over the 8 hurdles in aggressive style twice to satisfy her and those anxiously watching. Job done, so the injury situation has as the few lines outlined here indicated improved.

Everybody else in good spirits, unbelievable session and impressive from Paul Hession yesterday. Head down, just let the days roll in. Have decided not to call a general team meeting simply work it one-on-one through the programme. Keep it simple and steady as we go.

Heading into a village that will have changed in a week and will continue to change daily as competition ends for many and while they party we must continue to stay on the focus we have engendered over the past weeks. The morale in the Irish camp will at this point be mixed dependent totally on specific sport results. Have picked up on some of the national media over the weekend. The problem always with the olympics and no doubt this Games will be no different is the media who jump on board chasing the negative story. The same media that generally do not take a bit of interest in your sport in the interim four years. And then there is the guys that report week in week out through the good days and bad days around the globe. Hence the contrast in attitude as you watch the reaction over the period. Hopefully we can provide positive stories. Certainly these athletes have left no stone unturned to do everyone proud.

Heading to bed right now and will arrive Beijing 2200hrs local time tomorrow night. Delighted to be getting on with it. Further updates from inside the village and from the stadium in the days ahead and yes I have seen the result, Harps beating Shamrock Rovers. Good stuff. Have supplied a photo of an occassion when I was obviously under pressure many years ago but tonight I am calm in the knowledge that we could not really have done more to produce performances in these Games. It's been a daily exercise. Let's rush to the start line now.

Patsy Mc Gonagle
Senior/Olympic team manager
Athletics Ireland
0872226112
http://www.finnvalleyac.com

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Beijing Diary Number 5

Its 9pm Saturday night just in the door having watched a fireworks display immediately in front of our hotel to celebrate their annual Summer festival here in Matsue attended by literally thousands mainly family groups and young people. And guess what not a lager lout nor indeed anyone drinking on the street. Contrast that with Ireland. It will be a vivid memory when I look back at my time here the noticeable behaviour and respect that is engendered throughout all facets of society. You are reminded of this on a daily basis, such is the lifestyle and expected behaviour norm. Interesting to watch a group of some 30 young boys, age about ten, all dressed in their team baseball kit who came along to watch our training yesterday and they obviously appreciated the opportunity.

Alistair Cragg hammered out a track session in spikes this afternoon and is ready to approach the challenge in good positive spirits after an earlier injury scare 10 days ago. He will double up taking in the 1500m in addition to his main event the 5k. The thinking being to introduce him to the competition routine from the off. As in previous championships he tended to lose focus in the vital days prior to the race. Hence he is on the plane with me Tuesday into Beijing, the first batch of Track and field to return to the Olympic venue having enjoyed a short stop over days ago.

Martin Fagan is on the roads round the Paddy fields in the morning to rattle out a 22 mile run accompanied by his coach Greg Mc Millan from their training base in Flagstaff, Arizona. I am pleased Greg has accepted the invitation to join Martin here as his wife has just had a baby. He is excited about being here being part of the final few days and he has his bike all set to go in the morning. Earlier today Rob Heffernan was round the same Paddy fields to churn out a 20k. All good with him.

All sports are similar in that they come down to one moment in time and that moment is now. Just days away and the talk has changed now to results of Irish competitors. Everyone adds to the story as the hours pass, as all are on their computers watching and reading the latest as it comes out from China. It's interesting how conversations start, change, etc. in a group situation such as this. Breakfast this morning all chewing away then someone sits down and relays that Goussis, a 200m Greek, has been caught cheating taking drugs. Everybody knew anyway but catching him thats the bonus. Our interest? It's the event Paul Hession takes in and in which he is a strong challenger. For a brief moment the talk is of drugs but that is unusual cause Irish athletes tend to avoid long discussion on this topic, because it's something you have no control over and the thought pattern you can only control what you yourself do so stick to the training programme and see where it takes you.

I have attached a 1984 photo of a group of Finn Valley athletes taken after a team competition in Edinburgh just to underline that my thoughts are very much with those that continually work with me and for Finn Valley building a tradition decade on decade and creating a certain pride. Look out for Neil Martin in the shot, an athlete who came on board in the very beginning in the seventies as an excellent cross-country competitor and is still there religiously to this day. How many of the faces do you recognise. (Post your comments below.)

And some how it's the same with Irelands involvement with the olympics. Names that are legends and will live forever - Treacy, OSullivan, Delaney, O Callaghan, Tisdall and the first woman to represent Ireland ever in athletics Maeve Kyle back in 1956 in Melbourne. This group heading to bed tonight in Japan are now ready to carry the message to another generation and what is really encouraging is the atmosphere here as good as if not better than pre Osaka in 2007. Will catch up with you all before I hit the road Tuesday and then the reports come from the olympic city.

The news has just come in that Chloe Magee from Raphoe has won her Badminton match versus the Estonian. A really close result indicating the tough competitive nature of the 19 year old. She is now in the last 32. Great result.

Patsy Mc Gonagle
Senior/Olympic team manager
Athletics Ireland
0872226112
http://www.finnvalleyac.com

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Beijing Diary Number 4

The Beijing Olympic games will begin later tonight with literally a big bang,fireworks that is, as the Chinese launch a spectacular opening ceremony. They have spent $43 billion in preparation for these olympics and are determined that no protesters are going to spoil their party with 100,000 troops on security duty. Rain is expected later in the evening and that may dampen the occassion a little but the action has begun with the soccer men and women in action. From a Donegal point of view Philip Deignan is in action Saturday in the 252.4k road race and that happens out round the Great Wall on a loup circuit. Fingers crossed all goes well for him as he has prepared diligently and will give it his best. (Picture: Alistair Cragg)


All the athletes and support staff are now here with me in Japan. The last members coming in through Tokyo yesterday and all moving along nicely. Headed to do a pool session with Joanne Cuddihy yesterday in this magnificent outdoor 50m facility. That went well and I would be confident now that she will go to the start line in the Birds nest. Everything else was just routine stuff and I am still doing my hour walk each evening from track to team hotel. (Picture: Derval O'Rourke)


When the last event is complete on Sunday August 24, the last Irish competitor being Mullingar man Martin Fagan in the marathon, what will be regarded as a successful Games? You do continually be asked how many medals but really for us it's performances and that could be translated as 3 or 4 making finals and similarly 3 or 4 in semis. That, take it from me would be a class return for athletics in Ireland. To put that in perspective in 2004, one athlete made a final while in 2000 in Sydney Sonia in 5k and Gillian o Sullivan in walk plus national relay records were really the only stand out performances. And so these questions will continue to be asked and only on August 24 will they be unequivally answered. (Picture: Robbie Heffernan )

One of the opportunities that a training camp environment allows is time to catch up between sessions on the internet with emails, unfinished future planning etc. So right now I am finalising the document for the annual primary schools cross-country and secondary school cross at Finn Valley early October. I really enjoy this aspect of the sport as each year a team of volunteers at the club deliver a track/field and cross country event which is well supported by schools around the wider area. (Picture: Michelle Carey)

Smog continues to be a matter of concern in Beijing while the skies were clear last weekend in recent days the National Stadium cannot be seen from nearby roads while at the Great Wall, 40k from the city, there is a greyish haze. This is despite the authorities taking 1 million cars off the road and 100 factories being closed in an attempt to clear the smog. The Chinese insist that the air is safe to breathe. Hopefully it will improve before athletics action begins on Aug 15th.

Further updates on www.finnvalleyac.com

Patsy Mc Gonagle
Senior/Olympic team manager
Athletics Ireland
0872226112
www.finnvalleyac.com

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Beijing Diary Number 3

It's interesting to note the daily routine of a training camp pre a major championship. All athletes work their pre planned programmes and you find walkers and distance runners out round the local Paddy fields at 8.30 or indeed there is the option of the local golf club. But as you can understand you must be there and gone by 8 am. (Picture:Fionnaula clearing waterjump).



Visited the track 11am approx today. Eileen O Keefee (pictured) the hammer thrower was doing an intense weight sesssion while Paul Hess and David Gilllick were on the track nothing too serious and add in Rte interviews done and dusted. Back to hotel, lunch and now hitting the computer and the athletes have headed to an electronics shop. I am heading for a walk with Director Of athletics Max Jones to visit local Art Gallery. Back to track at 4.30. All hands on deck then and evening dinner.

David (pictured in gym) has lined up a screen to have us watch the Colin Farrell movie 'In Bruges'. Should be good craic and as important pass valuable time .

This managerial roundabout that I find myself on right now began in 1992 to Soeul to the world junior champs. A journey into the unknown and memorable not only because it was my first major assignment but that I was out of the country at what was to become a defining sports moment for Donegal. Late in the evening local time I went to a phone box to ring my late father. I remember the moment clearly, asking the question, he messing me about delaying the answer pretending not to hear me and then the result really stands out. Rushing upstairs so far from the excitement of home to relay the news to team members who when I think about it now did not give a hoot. Will there ever be a GAA moment in time such as that again. Only the players who now represent the county can answer that.

The journey continued to european ,world, olympic games, world student games, european and world cross etc. in various parts of the globe. Not forgetting European champions cup cross-country with Finn Valley. The first journey to Italy in that context to Cassino with my good friend Peader Mc Granaghan and my son Conor who invariably accompanied me . So many memories but for another day.

The challenge here for this squad is to be the best there has ever been at an olympics based on overall performance. That's what will make it nervy as Aug 15th approaches.

The injury situation continues to improve lets keep our fingers crossed that all is on an upward swing and all athletes are in a position to do themselves justice after years, yes, years of dedicated disciplined preparation.

Its time to hit the road once again to the track on the bus and walk the 4 miles back. Nneed the exercise and I will be back to update in the coming days.

Patsy Mc Gonagle
Senior/Olympic team manager
Athletics Ireland
0872226112
http://www.finnvalleyac.com

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Beijing Diary Number 2

And finally the plane touched down in Izumo having spent the night in an airport hotel in Tokyo. A good nights sleep and the routine of training begins calmly at first to allow for recovery and adaption to heat and humidity but thankfully the injury situation re 2 of the heavy hitters Alistair Cragg and Eileen O Keefee is much improved.


The plan for today, its 9am now, is walkers are already out training and we then head to the sea for a swim. (Picture: Patsy and Alistair) Then back for lunch and then to the track at 4-30 or the weights room dependent on individual training programmes . RTE crews due in at 6-30 and get that off the agenda asap.



Everybody relaxed no unnecessary questions as this is a familar environment having used this area in 2007 pre-Osaka. Where did that year go? We arrived here to a press conference and reception and a friendly welcome and many volunteers available to support our needs .


Its interesting to plot the journey of a sports person to this point in their career mostly similar stories began at a young age stayed with the sport began at a point to dream dreams of one day representing Ireland in the ultimate, the Olympic Games. A unique honour acheiving same and then coming to terms with that and preparing to perform so a certain pressure has to be dealt with and a controlled focus. I gather from this squad just now that we are once again in a good position. Time will tell. (Picture: The Irish swim team)

Was running through the Donegal olympians in my head earlier . Its an interesting study which in some ways reflects the different social challenges of their particular era and the limited opportunity.

Lets begin with the first ,1948 London a train journey for two Inishowen men a Ballyliffin man Patsy McGonagle who had joined the Irish Army a number of years earlier during the Emergency and was at that time a Lieutenant based in Dublin playing soccer with Bohemians. The second Inishowen man Emmet Mc Laughlin from Carndonagh a student at UCD studying medicine playing with the College. Beaten early in the competition finally by Poland back on the train to Holyhead. Both now deceased. Patsy ended his career in the army in Donegal as a Commandant and Emmet emigrated to England.

Its 1952 and Paul Dolan born in Ballyshannon is competing in the 200m out of Clonliffe Harriers as he is by then, as his family is living now in Dublin. He passed away a few years ago.

The other side of the world its 1956 Melbourne remembered of course particularly for that gold winning performance of Ronnie Delaney in 1500m and the local connection boxer Pa Sharkey from Kincasslagh was working in Australia at that time joined the team on their arrival per San Francisco by boat a long long journey. Pa has returned to his native Kincasslagh and the thought strikes me that someone out there should certainly record his memoirs.

Again in 1964 its a boxer its Tokyo its a man who now lives outside Ballybofey Brian Anderson who was in those days boxing from Middle Row ABC, London a man who won both British and Irish titles working as a stone mason now for many years .

There is a long gap then to the olympic marathon of Montreal and Munich and the emergence of a distance runner called Danny Mc Daid from Glenswilly who headed off to Dublin to work and to further improve his athletics joining Clonliffe. Similar to what many of the current crop of Irish athletes have done move to a better training environment. It worked for Danny and its working for this crew. Danny now retired from his employment as a postman in Letterkenny still retains a strong link with his sport.

And now Philip Duignan and Chloe Magee will continue the tradition here in the Far East and possibly like myself in a world many years ago when I crowded into a room with 160 students in 1960 at St Columbs College in Derry to watch the Games from Rome and will John Lawlor an Irish hammer champion on to a medal ,he finished 4th. Hopefully will inspire another generation.

And so another day begins at a training camp in Japan another day that will in time add up to the story of what will become the Beijing Olympics.

Patsy Mc Gonagle
Senior/Olympic team manager
Athletics Ireland
0872226112http://www.finnvalleyac.com

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Beijing Diary Number 1

One World One Dream is the olympic motto and I arrived into the cauldron of heat and humitity that is Beijing today, August 2. Early in the morning having come in with a party of 9 from Frankfurt . All the waiting, preparing, planning and detail over as we involve ourselves in the greatest sports festival in the world this year here in the Far East .

The trick is to sleep for just an hour yes just the hour and then climb out of the bed and shower and get out there surviving till night to get into the 7 hour difference asap and get the body clock on local time. Got the news Harps beaten -- not so good.

On first impressions this is a really good village complex everything in proximity for athletics. The Birds Nest, the main stadium, is 10 minutes away. Will have a recce early tomorrow before heading to training camp in Japan. No smog, clear sky despite all the chat. Hopefully it will remain so.

Got many texts and good wishes from back at home which I really appreciate and I appreciate the honour it is to be Team Leader at this level once again . My thoughts are with Mark Connolly coach with Ulster team in Grangemouth and he has been texting me results. It's a small world and of course he is the latest Valley person to act in this capacity with representative teams following on from Christine Feeley, Neil Martin,Bernie Alcorn, etc .

The team itself, 16 athletes, all with their own ambitions and Alistair Cragg (5k) left behind to finish treatment on a achilles joining us directly into Japan and Eileen O Keeffe (hammer) struggling with an injury. The pressure is on as it is with Medical student Joanne Cuddihy to be ready to compete . The difference regarding an olympics is the multi sport nature of the Games and no doubt in the weeks ahead television will cover extensively. Our first action is on August 15th and there was a lorry load of RTE people on our plane all travelling to cover same and i expect the sports journalists to arrrive in coming days. The great thing about being away in Japan preparing is that we cut out that demand though I have arranged Greg Allen, radio and TV crew will spend 2 days with us in Matsue to get that aspect out of the equation in a relaxed environment .

Many Irish travelling out as per usual mainly family and close friends underlining the importance of family support the most important aspect of support there is from an early age. We sit around nights talking about this so often when away and whatever the level of involvement the kids love to impress the parents,grandparent so therein lies the message go along and watch your children and maybe one day as a result they will make you feel so proud as olympians representing Ireland. They at a minimum will be better people independent,ambitious disciplined etc . Think about and do something about it by bringing them along on a regular basis to local football,athletics,boxing,

whatever and be positive towards same. I see the return with this group here.

Bumped into Philip Duignan on the stairs he sure is ready to rock and while Chloe Magee is in a room 10m from me have not seen her yet .

So as I said I am ready to lead this group glad that it has finally eventually come. Let THE GAMES BEGIN.

Patsy mc Gonagle
Senior/Olympic team manager
Athletics Ireland
0872226112
http://www.finnvalleyac.com

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My Beijing Diary

It's closing in on the 2008 olympics in Beijing so its an opportunity to wish myself and the 16 athletes well. I fly out August 1 and hope to carry a regular blog on www.finnvalleyac.com (and here at Patsy's Beijing Diary) from behind the scenes. This proved really interesting in 2007 from Osaka.

I will start this early next week. I'll be flying for the next few days.

Feel free to leave comments. All the best for now.

Patsy Mc Gonagle
Senior/Olympic team manager
Athletics Ireland