The Last Word with Matt Cooper David Gillick On Life After The Cutthroat World Of Athletics
Nov 10, 2025
David Gillick, a former Irish 400m Olympian and athletics commentator, opens up about his memoir, The Race. He shares his journey from elite runner to life after athletics, discussing the intense pressures of doping and the identity crisis following his funding loss. Gillick candidly reflects on his mental health struggles and the lack of support athletes faced at retirement. He highlights becoming a father as a pivotal moment, and how running has helped him regain his purpose and empathy in his new role as a commentator.
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How A Stadium Moment Changed Everything
- David Gillick fell into the 400m after early success in school championships and a defining moment watching Usain Bolt in Jamaica.
- That experience motivated him to focus on athletics and gave him the drive to pursue elite competition.
Success Brings Crushing Expectations
- Success created external expectations that amplified David's internal pressure and self-criticism.
- He acknowledges being harsh on himself and difficult to live with while always wanting more.
Training With Athletes Who Later Doped
- Gillick trained alongside athletes who were later caught for doping and saw the issue first-hand.
- He never considered doping himself despite feeling the pressure and witnessing others' suspensions.
