Roisin McGettigan-Dumas

Róisín McGettigan-Dumas grew up running the beaches, trails and road of Wicklow, Ireland. She left home for a chance to compete in track and cross-country at Providence College, where she was a four-time All-American. In 2008 she represented Ireland at the Beijing Olympics in the 3K steeplechase, where she reached the final. She is a European Indoor medallist in the 1500m.

While she's retired from running competitively, Ro remains invested in the sport as

an entrepreneur (www.believeiam.com / www.sistersinsport.org) and certified sports psychology consultant. She she lives, trains and juggles family life with her husband, Myles, and two daughters, Hope and Ava in Providence, RI.

"When I first started keeping a training journal as a teenager, it created a shift in me and my relationship with the sport of running. I began to take ownership of my training where I could directly observe how my efforts converted to improvement. I've now well over a decade worth of journals and I'm amazed at how the journey unfolded, the progression I made and the amount of goals I achieved- many long after I originally conceived them. My journal is a private space where I allow my aspirations germinate. I bank the work I put in and any inspiration I encounter. My journals act like a good friend, often providing me with reassurance when I'm nervous or doubtful before competitions, helping me believe in my preparedness and my ability.

Besides my running shoes and a regular sports watch, I would say my journal is the only other essential item a runner needs. I've tried the apps and the flashy watches, but I've always returned to the notebook, enjoying getting away from the electronics, and having something tangible to hold and cherish. There is power in the pen! Nowadays as a less-competitive runner, I still like to keep a journal as I find it motivates me to stay fit, keep in tune with how my body is feeling, and helps me recall special events and memories.

When US Champion and inspirational blogger, Lauren Fleshman, and I started working on a collection of apparel in 2010 that addressed the mind-body factor in sports performance, it dawned on me to turn our message and illustrations into a running journal. We self-published that first edition and it sold out in months. Thankfully VeloPress liked what we created and agreed to publish a bigger, better and expanded Believe Journal. It's jam-packed with insights and advice from pro-runners and avid runners. I couldn't be happier with the final product and hope that you too will find this journal helpful and encouraging on your athletic journey! Happy Running!"

Ro x