Olwen Carey - My Ireland

What’s your favourite thing about Ireland?
I like the mix between traditional Irish culture, like Gaelic games, and the way it’s becoming a more multi-cultural society as well.

Favourite Irish town?
Dublin – I can’t say anything else! I’m from Tallaght, which is quite relaxed, and then you go into the city centre, which is always so busy. I like having both sides. There’s always something to do in Dublin as well. Just recently, for example, I was at Dara O Briain in Vicar St., which was a really good show.

Best view in Ireland?
Either from the Hellfire Club up in the Wicklow Mountains, or from the top of Bray Head.

Best bar in Ireland?
I’m not really a big drinker, but I’d say either the Boar’s Head or Coppers.

Favourite weekend retreat?
A while back, we went as a team to Lahinch in Clare. The weather was lovely, which was great. We went surfing and also got to see a bit of the area. I hadn’t been to Clare before and I really enjoyed it.

Where do you shop for clothes?
Oasis or Top Shop. For sports gear, I usually go to the O’Neill’s factory shop in Walkinstown. Either there or Lifestyle.

Which gym do you use?
As a team, we train in DCU.

Where do you pick up ingredients for cooking?
I still live at home, so you’d probably have to ask my Mam! In terms of my favourite dish, if I’m trying to be healthy, it’s probably a chicken stir-fry. But if I’m just having a nice meal, I’d go for lasagne.

Favourite Irish building?
I always think Trinity College is really nice – it’s great to walk around.

What would you recommend to tourists?
I suppose to check out the city centre, but also to travel around the country as well. There are a lot of nice places to explore, like Clare and Wexford.

Best Irish song?
I’m into new bands like The Academic, but if I had to pick just one song, I’d go for ‘Beautiful Day’ by U2.

Your Irish hero?
I think Sonia O’Sullivan. As an athlete and woman, what she’s done for Ireland is brilliant.