Ireland’s Mona McSharry has made history by winning a bronze medal in the 100m Breaststroke at the Paris 2024 Olympics, securing Ireland’s first Olympic swimming medal in 28 years. This achievement came after a grueling journey spanning nearly a decade.
A Moment Nine Years in the Making
Competing in her second Olympic Games, McSharry’s path to the podium was fraught with challenges. She narrowly missed a medal in Tokyo and even contemplated quitting the sport in 2022 due to frustration over her progress. However, her perseverance paid off in Paris, where she finished third by a mere one hundredth of a second.
Overcoming Adversity
Reflecting on her journey, McSharry, 23, expressed her overwhelming emotions: “Unbelievable,” she said, tearfully recounting her experience on the podium. The Sligo native had dealt with water seeping into her goggles during the final but maintained her focus, finishing with a time of 1:05.59.
A Future Full of Promise
McSharry’s medal is a testament to her dedication and the meticulous planning that began in 2015 with her coach Grace Meade. As she celebrates this monumental achievement, she remains focused on upcoming events, signaling that her journey is far from over.
