14th - What Happens Behind the Finish Line: The Story of Pop Up Races with founder Brian Conroy

What does it really take to stand behind the finish line?In this episode, I sit down with Brian Conroy, co-founder of Pop Up Races, to explore the journey behind one of Ireland’s most recognisable race timing companies.Brian shares how he went from working as a chartered accountant to building a business rooted in the running community — what that transition felt like, the risks involved, and how an idea slowly grew into something much bigger.We talk about the reality behind race day — the early starts, the pressure, the moving parts — and what it takes to deliver events for thousands of runners across the country.But this conversation is just as much about Brian the runner. Coming to running later in life after a background in rugby, he reflects on the races that shaped him, the progression from his first 10K to marathons and Ironman, and what the sport has given him beyond the finish line.It’s a story about change, resilience, and perspective — and what you learn when you spend enough time watching people cross the line.