"I had always been really into sports, but obviously I couldn't continue to play once I went blind. That was definitely one of the hardest things that I had to deal with. Even now, on a nice day like today, I will wake up in the morning and think how I'd love to go and play a nice game of soccer! But I have found new sports which I really enjoy, like kayaking, rowing and rock climbing which makes it a bit easier."

Cycling is another of Martin's pastimes and he is about to put his skills to good use this month, completing a tandem cycle from Mizen Head to Malin Head in aid of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. On 24 May, Martin and his friend Rory (pictured) will undertake the six-day cycle, arriving into Eyre Square on Tuesday 27 May.

"This is a great event as the funding is going towards such a great cause. I got my guide dog Jake in 2003. I was the first and only secondary school student in Ireland with a guide dog and it was the best decision I ever made, as it gave me so much freedom and mobility. It allowed me to come to college and live a much more independent life, even though I have had to get used to the dog getting all the attention. It is always him that people are interested in, not me!

"A blind person will need eight guide dogs in their lifetime and each dog costs about €30,000 to train. About 85 per cent of the funding for this comes from private sponsorship; only 15 per cent comes from the government. Last year, we raised about €100,000, which will make a huge difference, so hopefully people will dig deep this year and help us raise as much money as possible."

Showing that 'never say die' attitude that has brought him so far already, Martin is hopeful that, in time, stem cell research may come up with a cure for his blindness and restore his sight. However, for now, he is making the most of his life and is really looking forward to the impending cycle event.

"It is a leisurely cycle, not a race but I suppose I have a bit of a competitive streak in me. We have been training for the last six months and last year I was part of the first tandem to finish. I hope that this year with Rory being the eyes and me being the engine we will be able to keep that record!"

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