Dublin warmly welcomed double-Olympic champion Kellie Harrington twice in one day, celebrating her at a civic reception held in the GPO, then later at a solo event in her home neighbourhood. This level of fervent sporting excitement hasn’t been seen in the capital since the 1990 ‘Italia. Typically, the Irish crowd would sing Olé, Olé, Olé, as part of their cheering, but another song has recently joined their repertoire – an unlikely tune dedicated to a pre-execution wedding.
The audience’s zealous rendition of ‘Grace’, initially sung emotionally by Harrington after her victorious win at Roland Garros, is deemed by many as a singular event unless she decides to compete in Los Angeles Olympics in the coming four years – an idea which she has often dismissed while celebrating in Dublin.
Regardless, this passionate performance was resounded by her supporters throughout an unforgettable night that has left a lasting impression on those fortunate to be present. Kellie’s North Inner City community has been vehemently supportive of her achievements over the years, yet their fervour escalated as she clinched her second Olympic triumph in Paris.
During each of her fights, her fellows and friends would congregate at Diamond Park, their jubilation spurred Dublin City Council to arrange an exclusive homecoming celebration, separate from the one she shared with her fellow Olympians.
Harrington took pride of place in the day’s proceedings, leading with her characteristic humility. During her interview, she paid tribute to her coaches, Ireland’s people and her local community, before the stage was given to other Irish Olympic medal winners.
Amidst the gleaming gold medal Daniel Wiffen clutched for his triumphant performance in men’s 800m freestyle swimming and the bronze he earned in the men’s 1,500m, stood Rhys McClenaghan, another champion adorned with a gold medal won in pommel horse gymnastics. Fintan McCarthy also attracted enthusiastic greetings, having seized golden fame with Paul O’Donovan in the lightweight double sculls rowing category in men’s competition. Also, part of the victorious lot was Mona McSharry hailing from County Sligo who earned a bronze in the 100m breaststroke. Spectators celebrated rowing heroes Philip Doyle and Daire Lynch, both bronze-medallists too.
Yet, as evening descended, the spotlight veered to one hero in particular, Kellie.
By the time it struck seven, throngs of supporters had assembled on Killarney Street, visibly energised by her past victorious arrival replaying on a screen. A salesman, perspiring under the glaring sun, navigated through the crowd, hawking commemorative car plates for Kellie; “two for £5”. East Wall’s Gerry Stafford was more keen on the athlete rather than memorabilia. He admired Harrington as a role model for the community, particularly the youth. He acknowledged her contribution in uplifting a neglected corner of the town and praised her as a double Olympic gold medallist from the north inner city.
Not far off, stood Isabella Hughes, a budding athlete from Rathmines who trained at Harrington’s St Mary’s Boxing Club in Tallaght. Like her hero, she too was a lightweight hoping, one day, to own a medal herself. She revered Harrington for her generosity and inspirational influence.
Meanwhile, sisters Ciara and Jackie Ellington seemed slightly confused as their gaze drifted towards the Five Lamps, unsure of where to proceed next.
Ciara had made the journey from Meath into the city to attend the first stage of the homecoming in the city’s heart. After a rejuvenating break at the Ferryman, both of them felt energised and were ready for more.
“How splendid it is having all these medals?” questioned Ciara. “To witness the potential magnitude of the Irish flag being held up by so many, each for the right cause. It’s simply beautiful.”
Jackie agreed with energetic passion, “It’s as though we’re reclaiming our city streets,” she exclaimed.
It was 7:30 pm, yet there was no indication of Kellie’s appearance on Killarney Street. But the festive vibe was still alive and well, with the national flag’s colours decorating each residence. Everyone looked thrilled, except for the duo attempting to sell commemorative “gold” medals, who weren’t having much luck.
Despite the continuous enquiries of what was happening and when she would arrive, by 8pm the ambiance was buzzing. Suddenly, to the sounds of the Raglan Road performed by the Dublin City Fire Brigade Band, Kellie made her brief appearance only to disappear again into a car. However, she reappeared on the stage at the opposite end of the road after about half an hour.
With emotion in her eyes, Harrington gave a heartfelt and motivational speech, thanking her community for their support during her Olympic journey. She conveyed a hopeful message that her accomplishments could serve as a testament to the power of hard work and dedication.
“I hope this instills the values of hope, desire, and determination in everyone from our lovely neighbourhood,” she stated. “We’re capable of doing anything, but nothing is handed to us freely; we must strive relentlessly.”
She concluded her speech with a spontaneous traditional phrase: “Bob’s your uncle, Fanny’s your aunt and Goodnight Irene”, while reassuring those struggling that “everyone occasionally needs a helping hand to reach their goals”.