This week as part of our inspiration series we meet Danny O’Callaghan and living in the Lake District, he’s never far from the mountains. A keen mountain biker and trail runner Danny tells us more about his love of the great outdoors.
An introduction to Danny
Back in January, we launched a campaign to find some new male brand ambassadors and we were inundated with applications. Selecting just 3 was a very difficult task, but we got there and just as we were ready to introduce them, COVID arrived and all our plans were put on hold – until now that is. This week we are delighted to introduce and welcome Danny O'Callaghan to the FINDRA family.
Hi Danny, let’s begin with you telling us where you live and what you do!
Hey, my name is Danny O’Callaghan and I’m an engineer and mountain biker from the Lake District. Being based in the Lake District means I am always in the mountains, be it on my mountain bike, trail running with my dog Louie, or film making.
How long has the outdoors been a part of your life?
Growing up in a national park I was pretty lucky and I guess the outdoors has always been part of my life, but I didn’t start to truly appreciate it until I was in my early twenties. That is when I started looking for adventures at home or abroad.
What’s been your favourite trip or adventure?
Oh man, its so hard to pick a favourite trip, they are all awesome in a lot of ways. The most recent trip was in the camper to Torridon. It was October and we got super lucky with the weather, 6 days of sunshine would you believe – an incredible trip!
How do you make find a balance between being active and life’s other responsibilities i.e. work and family?
Work life balance is so important to me. To live and work in the Lake District is such a blessing. Buying a house with riding on the doorstep has huge advantages but also being able to take my bike to work with me and ride from there is a massive plus. Both make everyday adventures possible which makes the work / life balance easier. I make a point of getting outside everyday even if just for a short burst.
Is there anyone who inspired your love of the outdoors?
Hmmm, this might sound cheesy but probably my mum. In the school holidays she would take us all over the Lakes enjoying the local honeypots!
Do you find that being outside has a positive impact on your wellbeing and mental health?
Massively! I go a bit crazy if I can’t head to the fells a few times a week at least. But mostly when I’ve had a stressful day at work, nothing gives me more head space than going for a ride or run.
What is it about mountain biking/ biking specifically that you love?
For me mountain biking is the complete package – its social, it keeps you fit, you can explore the outdoors and it gives me an adrenaline rush. It also continues to push us all – there is always something we can ride better, something that pushes the fear barrier, we are always progressing.
When did you discover FINDRA?
I discovered the brand when I was managing a bike shop a few years ago, I looked at bringing it into the store before they even had a men’s range. So, chuffed they do now!
What does being a brand ambassador for FINDRA mean to you?
I’m stoked – mega looking forward to sharing my adventures with you guys!
And finally, what’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Not sure what the best piece of advice I’ve ever had is, but a quote I like to live by is “If you’re going through hell, keep going!”
Thanks Danny and welcome on board!
TRAIL OF THE WEEK
Danny’s favourite MTB trail is Sticks Pass off the summit of Helvellyn in the Lake District.
“It’s just pretty spectacular up there in general and then you then have a roughly 20 minute singletrack descent to the lakeshore!”
FAVOURITE ADVENTURE
Danny mentioned that it’s nearly impossible to pick a favourite adventure one that stands out for him was in New Zealand.
“The whole trip was incredible, but the highlight was when we did the Old Ghost Road, that was epic, a 3-day bike packing adventure across an old mining trail, a first for us both! Another variation of biking, that trip inspired me to do more and adventure further.”
MUSIC OF THE WEEK
Nick Mulvey – Cucurucu
This was a tough one for Danny as he likes all sorts of different musical genres.
“They all inspire me in a different way. But if I’m heading off on a road trip nothing gets me more ready for an adventure than chilling out and listening to Nick Mulvey.”
Danny has picked Cucurucu by Nick Mulvey, have a listen and see what you think.
