The residents of Portland Row in Dublin have grown accustomed to seeing everything in a golden hue, and it’s not just because of Kellie Harrington’s growing stash of gold medals. While the historic boxer hasn’t returned yet from her Olympian glory in Paris, Dublin City Council has treated their distinguished resident’s fame with a special acknowledgment. They have engaged in giving the street’s lamp-posts a golden makeover, thereby ensuring that the symbol of Harrington’s victories remains visible.
This was witnessed on Wednesday, a mere few hours post Harrington’s victory over Wenlu Yang from China. She was successful in retaining the title that she first acquired three years back in Tokyo. Following this win, Noel Wallace, a council painter, was seen outside Harrington’s parents’ home in the northern inner city, painting the nearby lamp-posts with gold. With last time’s post box being painted in gold, the residents are now adjusting to such unconventional painting tasks.
The city councillor, Nial Ring, humorously commented on the rising frequency of such paint jobs, saying that if one were to stand long enough on Portland Row, they might get painted gold themselves.
The local’s disbelief can still be felt, with many wondering if they can truly comprehend Harrington’s exceptional achievements.
Portland Row, a bustling city street flanked by age-old terraced houses and council homes, has become a magnet for Harrington’s successes. She is a proud owner of a house on the street and has also been the backbone of the community. The boxer has leveraged her fame and success to organise children’s community events in the area.
Harrington’s grounded nature as a typical Dubliner makes the use of gold almost paradoxical yet fun. Following the conclusion of the Olympic team’s celebrations in Ireland, a reception dedicated to Harrington might be organised on Portland Row.
Ring shared his anticipation for the forthcoming celebrations, indicating that they would be grander than the previous ones. He thinks this would help people understand the gravity of Harrington’s accomplishments.