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WATCH: Irish Olympian Sophie Becker trades the track for a dairy farm

Published 14:52 12 Nov 2026 GMT

Updated 14:52 12 Nov 2026 GMT

Sarah McKenna
WATCH: Irish Olympian Sophie Becker trades the track for a dairy farm

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While Gleeson and Becker's lifestyles may differ, their professions are underpinned by many of the same principles.

Brought to you by the National Dairy Council

On the surface, you might not think that a champion sprinter and an Irish dairy farmer have a lot in common. But between dedication, passion and a thorough commitment to excellence, Irish Olympian Sophie Becker and dairy farmer Katie Gleeson found out they share a lot of common ground.

So, how did this perfect pairing begin? Well, Becker is a huge fan of Irish yogurt, and it's an easy choice for the athlete. She has to perform at her best every day, and yogurt helps fuel her body*. On top of it being a great source of protein, Becker chooses yogurt because it's produced in an increasingly sustainable system, thanks to the efforts made by dairy farmers.

Curious to learn more, Becker ventured out to Gleeson's farm in Templemore, Co. Tipperary, to experience a day in the life. Not only did she learn the many traits farmers and athletes have in common, but she got to see firsthand the care Irish farmers like Gleeson pour into their work.

For instance, farming, like athletics, can be measured and can be improved. In fact, the two go hand in hand, as Becker learned. Gleeson uses science and data to make informed decisions and improve her farm's performance. Becker, for her part, takes a similar approach, feeding performance data into her training plans and optimising for better results.

Throughout her visit, Gleeson takes Becker through a typical day on the farm, from the milking parlour to the pastures. She even gets the chance to meet Gleeson's pet cow, and learns how farmers measure grass using a rising plate meter.

While Gleeson and Becker's lifestyles may differ, their professions are underpinned by many of the same principles – rigorous discipline and a commitment to continuous improvement. 

You can learn more about how Irish dairy farmers' growing commitment to more sustainable farming practices here.

*Yogurt is high in protein which contributes to a growth in muscle mass.