Nice article on Sweeney, but Ian O'Riordan (son of Tom O'Riordan, the great journalist and runner in his day) keeps on referring to 'Kernan'.....although the famous former 8th in the L.A. marathon is named 'Kiernan' and not as printed.
Sweeney is unlikely to make an impact in the marathon (at least not in the sub. 2.08 range) based on his height (6.4). But let him prove us wrong. Even Tergat at 1.82 was just under 6feet, and he was tall for marathon. You cannot expect someone at 6.4 to run at the very top level 2.07 and under with that kind of build. Physiologically difficult. He could end up with a 2.10 but better than that would be a 'tall order' no pun intended.
Now, ironically, that Ireland is getting 'poorer' again in economic terms, I see a continued improvement in running. Most countries that become more prosperous show an inverse relationship with running success. Japan is one of the few exceptions to that 'rule.'
Ghost in Saudi,
, apply today.