How did you get started running?
I began running when I was 13 at Hexham Middle School. I started by running in schools cross country competitions.

When did you recognize that competing professionally was something you aspired to?
In 2003, I was contacted by Coach Lindsay Dunn who had seen me race in previous years and noticed that I had given up through injury. He instilled a great amount of belief in all of his athletes. If you organized training properly and worked hard then anything was possible in running.

When did you recognize that competing professionally was something you could do?
In 2004, I raced a late season 1500m in Finland against John Mayock who was then the top ranked British athlete. He had to work hard to beat me on the line and I realized that I was perhaps more capable than I previously realized.

Your coach's name?
Lindsay Dunn

Favorite training venue?
Caulfield Racecourse, Melbourne

What is your favorite workout (and why)?
3-4 x 1 mile with a lap jog recovery. Separates the men from the boys. If you do it well, you are not far off being in top shape.

What is your least-favorite workout (and why)?
1K repeat intervals. I find it boring and unnecessary.

Favorite racing venue?
Oslo

Is there another place, apart from your favorite racing location, where you get an extra lift/home court advantage (and why)?
I really enjoy racing at Mansfield in the British Cross Country Relays. The crowd can get very close like indoors, major endurance track meets should take note.

Favorite race event?
5000m

Do you have any superstitions related to competing?
You are only as good as your last fight.

What is your pre-race / warm-up routine?
I like to eat Risotto the night before. It is like rocket fuel. On the day of the race I do a 15 minute jog, drills, and strides.

Piece of your kit you would never be without: Spikes

What gets you most excited to compete?
Walking out of the call room and on to the track.

What is your favorite meal, the night before the race?
Risotto

What is your favorite post-race meal?
Sunday Roast

What gives you an advantage over your competition?
I think I am difficult to get past as I can wind the race up from far out and make it tough.

What food / snack is your guiltiest pleasure?
A chocolate Fredo or a Caramel Koala

Which character from a TV program or movie best resembles how you think of yourself?
Michael Schofield from Prison Break. I have many Karl Pilkington moments though.

What is something most people don't know, or would be surprised to learn, about you?
I collect subbuteo teams. I collect anything given a chance.

What activity, apart from running, most represents 'me time' for you?
Sunday morning Match of the Day

What person has most shaped your career or life?
I have had a lot of great coaching from Lindsay Dunn and also Nic Bideau

What is the best piece of advice (not necessarily related to running) you've ever been given - and would be eager to pass along to others? "Life is what happens to us while we are busy making other plans." I don't like over quoting but this is one that John Lennon got spot on.

Why do you run?
Its a healthy addiction. There is always room for improvement. I enjoy all the experiences that happen along the way, from the competition to the different countries I visit. In training it is great to be challenged by the elements.

What is your most embarrassing running moment?
Getting lapped by Bekele in a 5000m. A major off day

What is your proudest?
Winning the AAA national championships.

Person you would most like to run with:
Sir Roger Bannister

What tips do you have for new runners?
Try to get positive people around you.
Whatever the ambition, it needs to be achievable but also enjoyable as there may be obstacles along the way that will try and stop you.