Paul Hession, the 26-year-old sprinter from Athenry, was named the 2008 Irish Athlete of the Year after reaching the 200 metres semi-finals at the Olympic Games.

Name:Paul Hession.

Schools:Athenry Boys National School; Athenry Vocational School.

Sport:Athletics.

Other school sports:Hurling, Gaelic football and rugby.

Who got you started?My cousin was into sport and was probably a big influence. My first coach, Tom Page, was very important in the early days.

The Best of Days:One of my best runs was winning my first All-Ireland title when I was 15. I had won a couple of bronze medals in the previous two years, but to finally win one was great.

The Worst of Days:My worst memory from my early school days was picking up a knee injury playing soccer at primary school. I was so disappointed because it took a couple of months to get back from, and I missed so much. I was preparing for the Community Games in Galway and eventually came second and missed out on a chance of going to Mosney.

Most inspiring sporting memory:Michael Johnson's victory in the 200m at the 1996 Olympic Games is still a race that is sharp in my mind. He destroyed the world record and I can still remember my reaction when I saw the clock stop at 19.32. I was a 200m runner as well so I was glued! Sonia O'Sullivan's many triumphs throughout the years were also important. To see an Irish person performing so majestically on the world stage was inspiring.

I wished I was:Frankie Fredericks, the Namibian sprinter. He was the perennial nearly man, winning four Olympic silver medals. I really liked the fact he was such a battler, despite being in the shade of Michael Johnson. He was a gentleman and a great sporting ambassador.

If I could turn back time:I don't really have any regrets from my school days. I enjoyed my sport and have many happy memories.

The value of school sport to you:A lot of my memories from school are of sport. It helped my confidence and gave me an outlet to focus my efforts and, inevitably, shaped me into the person I am today. The camaraderie was something that you just can't buy.

Most Admired:Paula Radcliffe. She is a consummate professional who has been through tough times but always stays strong to her dreams. When she is knocked down she works even harder and comes back for more.

Not too keen:Anyone who is arrogant or thinks they are above others just because they happen to be good at sport.

One sporting wish:That when I retire I will have no regrets!