Congratulations are in order for Gayle Lindsay, a name that holds a special resonance—sharing the same last name, perhaps we’re cousins down the line. Either way, this moment is about her. And what a moment it is.
Gayle has done what few can claim: three consecutive victories. That’s right—a triple triumph. She pulled it off last year, came back for another, and now she’s etched her name in the books once again. “How are you feeling?” I asked her, still amazed.
“I’m just so happy,” she said, eyes shining. “Honestly, it’s difficult to put it into words. There’s a sense of relief, after finishing first in a time of 1:26:44 really—just pure joy.”
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. I caught a glimpse of Gayle during the first water stop on the Crosby leg of the race, struggling to get water. It annoyed me a bit—those issuing water weren’t quite on it. I asked her how she handled that bump in the road.
“I didn’t let it faze me,” she said calmly. “I’d had water earlier, and I knew there would be more ahead. The morning hadn’t gone to plan, but I just focused on being flexible and staying in the race.”
That resilience is part of what’s made Gayle stronger every year. Back in 2016, she clocked in around 1:44—and today, she’s shaved nearly 20 minutes off that time. “That’s incredible,” I told her.
“It’s been a journey,” she agreed. “Looking back at where I started, it’s been nice to see that progression. But really, it all comes from a deep love of running. The structure, the training, the passion—it’s all added up. Success has motivated me to keep pushing.”
And then we spoke about the mind. That unseen force behind every stride.
“The mind controls the body,” I said. “Once I learned to run from one pole to the next, I realized it was all mental.”
“Oh absolutely,” she said. “Especially in the days leading up to the race, it was all mental. The physical part was done—but mentally, I had to really prepare. Over longer distances, you’re with your thoughts longer. That part plays a huge role.”
As if her triple win weren’t enough, Gayle is now setting her sights on a new horizon. I saw her farewell post—and yes, it brought a tear to my eye.
“It’s been a tough decision,” she admitted. “But I’ve been offered an opportunity in run coaching—something I’ve dreamt about for a long time.”
Her sister had been visiting, but it’s Gayle who will be moving on, though not away from running. She’s still training and will be competing in the Ireland Games in July. “I’ll definitely be back to visit,” she promised. “Hopefully I can jump into a few local races in the future.”
And as we wrapped up, I couldn’t resist asking: “Will you be back to defend your crown?”
“If I could, I would,” she smiled. “It all depends on the residency rules. But if they change, I’ll be back in a heartbeat.”
Oh—and one last surprise: Gayle is a twin. No wonder I was never quite sure which one I was seeing. “We’ve confused a few people,” she laughed.
Gayle, it’s been a pleasure running alongside you in years past. Watching your journey has been inspiring. May your path ahead be as swift and full of purpose as your stride. Congratulations—and bless your heart.
Any content which is considered unsuitable, unlawful, or offensive, includes personal details, advertises or promotes products, services or websites, or repeats previous comments will be removed.
User comments posted on this website are solely the views and opinions of the comment writer and are not a representation of or reflection of the opinions of TNN or its staff.
TNN reserves the right to remove, edit or censor any comments.
TNN accepts no liability and will not be held accountable for the comments made by users.