John McDonnell wasn’t a runner back in 2010. Until one day he saw photos of himself on holiday and realised he had become overweight. He began running as a means to lose weight and quickly progressed from the 5k distance to 10k, to half-marathon up to the full marathon and further. Fuelled by passion; driven by a desire for self improvement.

In 2017, at the young age of 48, he suffered a stroke brought on by an 11mm hole in his heart. This setback was only temporary. After recovering from the stroke and subsequent heart surgery, his running quickly gathered momentum.

Read John’s inspiring running story. It is a book about dedication, passion, perseverance, and beating the odds to make a full comeback to the sport that saved his life. In 2020, John ranked 12th in the world in his age category in the 50k ultra marathon distance. Follow the emotional story as he chases the elusive 3 hour marathon barrier well into his 50’s.

It is told in his funny and brutally honest manner. He spins his tale to include many of his 30 marathons as well as experiences from races all over Ireland, the UK and the Boston Marathon. Join John in his memoir; a truly inspiring running book.