Ellen Keane’s initial response is reflected in her actions first, starting with a steady nod and an ongoing grin of pure happiness. There’s no hint of second-guessing, sorrow, or covetousness. Following five consecutive participations in the Paralympics, her last deed was to share the honour of carrying her country’s flag during the closing ceremony at Stade de France. Back home in Dublin now, her only aim for her future is to have no set plan, precisely as she prefers.
She emphatically denies any residual wish to proceed when questioned about missing out on a medal in Paris’ swimming event by a tiny fraction of a second. Keane expresses that she was ready to move forward and needs time to figure out her identity, interests, and future path.
All her life she’s had to pause these reflections while she pursued her swimming career. She was likely set to retire post Europeans in April, and the lead up to the Paris event for the past few months turned out to be challenging. After five Paralympic cycles, she admitted to feeling incredibly exhausted. While her body could possibly endure physically, mentally, she felt tapped out.
Keane expressed immense relief for persevering the journey as it was an honour to represent her country in such a global arena. The atmosphere in Paris didn’t remind her of the usual competitive spirit that she used to feel at the different Games. In Paris, she felt complete, joyful and beaming with happiness, simply cherishing the present moments.
At the age of 29, her decision to retire draws a line under her remarkable journey which started in Beijing in 2008, when she was just 13 years old. The journey saw her bagging a bronze in Rio 2016 and gold in Tokyo 2020, both in SB8 breaststroke, playing a significant role in contributing towards a transformed understanding and awareness about the Paralympics.
“She confides that her apex was her time in Tokyo, stating she felt an understanding that this was the case. Upon her return from this city, it became clear to her that she desired her sporting retirement to take place in Paris. Consequently, she has spent the last few years in introspection, reflecting on why she embraced her career.
Her motivation lay in her passion for swimming, sports, and competitiveness. Though the aspiration to win gold may not have been present this time, she prioritised ending her career joyfully and contentedly. She witnessed Róisín [Ní Riain] triumphantly earn her first medal during her breaststroke event, which eased her transition into her retirement. She felt pride and excitement, without a hint of jealousy or anger, anticipating what the future holds for Róisín.
As an advocate for Allianz who sponsor the Paralympics, she notes the increased visibility around the Paris event. However, she believes RTÉ has room for improvement to level with the Olympic games’ coverage.
Commenting on the common perception that the priority of Paralympics Ireland is winning medals rather than encouraging participation, she emphasises the focus on performance, standards, and development of the sport. The high and strenuous standards exist to recognise them as top-tier athletes and it is fundamental to have ambitious standards that encourage competitors into faster times to foster sport growth.
She contemplates contributing to Paralympic sports one day, though presently she is determined to devote time to herself and see where her journey takes her next.”
“For the past two decades, I’ve always known my daily routine. However, for the first time, I find myself uncertain about the future. I plan to value this unfamiliar feeling, thoroughly explore it, and exercise caution not to hastily latch onto the first opportunity that presents itself. I want any future endeavour of mine to be something I’m intensely passionate about.”