On Saturday night, over 700 guests, including almost 300 Olympians and numerous sponsors, partners, and stakeholders, gathered at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road, to celebrate Team Ireland’s Olympic journey at the Centenary Olympic Ball. Hosted by Olympians David Gillick and Greg O’Shea, the event paid tribute to a century of Irish athletes who have competed on the Olympic stage since 1924.
Throughout the evening, Irish Olympic athletes spanning multiple generations were recognised for their contributions and achievements. Each Olympian received their official “number,” acknowledging the significance of representing Ireland at the Olympic Games. The night also featured inspiring speeches by Minister Thomas Byrne TD and European Olympic Committees President Spyros Capralos, while the President of the Olympic Federation of Ireland, Sarah Keane, received the prestigious Order of Merit.
PTSB Inspiring a Nation Award 2024 – This year’s award went to the Irish medallists of the Paris 2024 Olympics, who collectively achieved seven medals and thirty top-ten finishes. Rowers Paul O’Donovan, Fintan McCarthy, Philip Doyle, and Daire Lynch were among those honoured for their incredible performances, highlighting rowing’s role in inspiring the nation.
Deloitte Lifetime Achievement Award – Paul O’Donovan, Ireland’s most decorated Olympian, was presented with this honour. Having medaled in three consecutive Olympics and remained undefeated at World Championships since 2016, O’Donovan continues to set a high bar for excellence in Irish sport.
Allianz Olympic Legacy Award – Sonia O’Sullivan, renowned for her silver medal in Sydney 2000, received this award for her enduring influence and support of Irish athletes, especially women.
Flogas Community Ambassador of the Year 2024 – Olympic Champion Kellie Harrington received recognition for her dedicated community work, inspiring young people across Ireland through programs like Dare to Believe.
Sport Ireland Breakthrough Olympian 2024 – Swimmer Daniel Wiffen, celebrated for his record-setting performance in Paris, was acknowledged as an emerging star on the global stage.
The evening, filled with video highlights by Inform Sport Media and live performances from Nicole Lonergan, the Galway Tenors, and Liam O’Connor, was a fitting tribute to the dedication and achievements of Irish Olympians over the past century. Rowing Ireland is proud to stand among these incredible athletes, celebrating a legacy of perseverance and triumph on the world stage.
