Eighty-year-old Robert Deane, a former marathon runner, who has recently rekindled his passion for the sport that once played a central role in his life, chats to Niamh Coughlan about growing up in Dunmanway, lacing up his shoes once again and logging miles, smashing personal bests, and hiking up mountains.
Born and raised on Coach Road, Dunmanway, Robert now resides in Derry City in the North, where he is an active member of several running clubs. He fondly recalls a childhood shaped by the rhythms of rural life in 1950s West Cork – a time of limited job opportunities and widespread emigration. The eldest of five siblings – John, Joe, Rose and Anto – he grew up in a hardworking family, where his father made a living from the land. Tragically, he lost his sister, Kathleen, in a road accident in Ballyhalwick when she was just 21-years-old.
Robert attended Dunmanway National School, followed by Secondary Model and Vocational Schools. His earliest memories from childhood revolved around working alongside his father, particularly long days spent at the bog, which instilled in him an early appreciation for physical activity.
Other memorable activities included thinning acres of sugar beet across Sullivan’s Farm, as well as the highlight of the farming year: threshing the corn with local families of the community. “After all the work was done, the adults would tap the keg to enjoy a well-earned stout and I would join in on a sing-song with everyone.”
In the 1950s and 60s, organised sports in Dunmanway were limited, with the exception o f Doheny’s GAA, a club that remains a pillar of the local community today. Robert briefly joined their juvenile football division at age 14, though his time with the team was short-lived. However, he vividly remembers the incredible talent produced by the club at the time. To name a few, Eamonn Young, John Young, Johnny Carroll, Seamus Sullivan, Mark Farr and John Crowley, all of whom went on to represent Cork at senior level. Robert’s nephew, Paul Deane, also of the Dohenys, made the Cork Minor football Panel in 2000.
Beyond football, social activities were scarce. St. Patrick’s Hall provided one of the few pastimes, where Robert and his friends would play billiards, while road bowling between Dunmanway and Drinagh was another popular pursuit. “The odd Saturday night disco had its place for us too. Gatsby’s in the Castle Hotel was the place to be!”
In January 1962, aged just 16, Robert left Dunmanway, setting off to find work. His career abroad saw him travel extensively for 11 years, working in various industries and experiencing life in different countries. It was during a period back home that he met Vonda, who would become his wife. Today, both are living in Derry City.
Robert’s journey as a runner began unexpectedly in 1981 when he attended the Derry Marathon as a spectator. Watching the athletes push themselves to the limit sparked something in him. “That day I made a promise to myself: Next year, I’ll be on that starting line.”
True to his word, he laced up his running shoes the very next day and began training. At 38-years-of-age, he embraced running with his own plan. Long-distance running was gaining popularity at the time, and Robert found himself swept up in the momentum. His training routine was relentless. “I ran 10.5 miles every evening after work.” If he ever missed a day, he would make up for it by running 15 miles on Sunday.
“There weren’t many structured training plans back then. It was more of a Forrest Gump mentality – just keep on running!” In those days, endurance and consistency were the only guiding principles. “Looking back, modern day training plans would frown upon such an approach, but for me, it was a simple way of life. My only expectations were to complete a marathon.”
Robert completed his first marathon in 1982 with a time of 4:15, then improved to 3:45 in 1983, and further shaved off time in 1984, finishing in 3:03. “My best achievement to date was the 1984 marathon for sure.
“Running has given me a sense of discipline and a clear objective in life, even at this stage of my journey. It has taught me that age is never a barrier to setting goals, staying active, and continuously challenging myself. One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is the power of community.”
After completing his third marathon in 1984, Robert gradually stepped away from running due to work and family life. Although his physical job kept him active, the trend of long-distance running naturally faded from his routine. He worked as a telephone engineer for 51 years at BT. Keeping busy, he worked tirelessly until the age of 77, and after retiring, he found himself adjusting to a slower pace of life. Free days at home soon turned into boredom, and while gardening provided some purpose, it wasn’t enough to fill his days with excitement.
That’s when running crept back into focus. Robert became curious to see if his legs could still move at the same speed. One day, he decided to test himself at the local running track – a small step that changed his outlook going forward. Soon after, he took on the challenge of ‘Couch to 5K’, and that’s where it all restarted.
Robert joined STAR Running Club in Derry at the age of 79. The club, now 10-years-old with over 130 members, has become his usual social group. “It’s a mix of all ages and we run at our own pace, encouraging each other on.”
“Since joining Star Running Club, my training has become a structured and fulfilling part of my weekly routine. We train three evenings a week – Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday – focusing on endurance and speed. On Saturdays, there’s the option of a long slow run (LSR), which I often take part in to build some stamina and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow runners.”
Last year, Robert discovered the Park Run community, and since then, he has completed 32 Park Runs across the UK and Ireland. ‘Some of my most memorable runs include The Glen Park Run in Cork City – that one is tough – and a charity 10km race in Bishopstown, in aid of Breast Cancer Ireland. My personal best race time is 26:40, achieved during a charity 5km run last year – haven’t beat it yet! But having that ‘can-do attitude’, if you think you can’t succeed, usually you will succeed.’
“A dream of mine would be to compete at the Masters in the M80 category (80- to 84-year-olds) at national level.”
He has since become the oldest runner at his local Park Run, a milestone he wears with pride. But beyond the running itself, the post-run coffee and conversation have become just as important.
To complement his running, Robert incorporates gym training at the Foyle Arena, focusing on strength and conditioning as much as he can. ‘These three pillars – discipline, good food and endurance – form the framework of a great athlete.”
“Today’s running culture offers far more structure, organisation, and social connection compared to back in my early years. We even share our weekly wins, progress and achievements via social media groups. Photos, race results and personal milestones are easily celebrated within the running communities.”
As a retiree, Robert now enjoys having plenty of time to focus on other aspects of his life too. He cherishes his role as a grandparent and is actively involved in the lives of his grandchildren, following them as they pursue their own sports and activities.
Weekends are filled with soccer matches to support his grandson’s games. Bobby currently plays for Limavady United in the Northern Irish championship, having been scouted for Lincoln FC in the past. Donagh, another grandson, has played at senior level for Glen Rovers Hurling Club in Cork City. His youngest grandchild, Ethan, plays with Derry City under 20’s at just 16-years-old. “It’s encouraging to see young adults embracing sports today, especially as external influences like mobile phones and technology can often have an impact on their well-being.”
Aside from his passion for sports and the frequent speculation at games, Robert enjoys spending time in the garden and savouring a pint of Guinness from time to time. Just last month, in March, he celebrated his 80th birthday. The day began with an early hike up Muckish Mountain in County Donegal with friends and family, followed by cake and a lively party that lasted well into the evening.
Perhaps hiking will become his next great adventure.
