Emerging from his boat onto the vibrant blue victory mat, Fintan McCarthy touched the stage of fresh triumph, his bright socks contrasting sharply with the platform. His role in executing in-race tactics and initiating post-race celebrations in the fastest boat ever to leave Ireland is impressive and comes naturally to him. Kneeling down, he lifted his hands towards the crowd-filled stands, releasing a mighty cheer. “Come on!!”
He then went on to embrace the most prestigious Irish Olympian in history. On a blistering morning at Vaires-sur-Marne, a stone’s throw from central Paris, their boat undertook a historical journey. In the lightweight double sculls competition, McCarthy and his teammate, Paul O’Donovan, set a precedent by being the first Irish athletes to defend an Olympic crown – a feat last achieved by Dr Pat O’Callaghan in 1932.
Adding to his silver medal from Rio, O’Donovan made history by becoming the first Irish sports star to win medals in three consecutive Olympics. This unparalleled demonstration of athletic prowess, resilience, and sheer tenacity is something to behold.
In the most significant race they’ve ever participated in, both McCarthy and O’Donovan were flawless in their operations and utterly overpowering. They surged ahead at approximately 800m from the finish line, dashing the hopes of their nearest rivals, Greece and Italy. By the end of the race, they were more than a boat’s length ahead of the competition.
“I feel that we were not under any particular pressure,” O’Donovan commented with characteristic nonchalance and dry wit. “Neither in Tokyo nor in any of the previous years.”
Whether this holds completely true or not, it is hard not to take him at his word. Frequently victorious far from their native soil, rowing with measured grace and effortless vigour, they undoubtedly exude an unshakeable confidence. Rowers often speak of the “pain cave”—the gruelling middle part of the race. It’s fair to say our champions likely experience this as well, but it’s never apparent on their faces, nor does it disrupt their stroke.
McCarthy expressed how honoured and privileged they feel to have been able to pursue their passion for rowing for the last several years. They focus on the intricate details of their training and find joy in discussing the technicalities and science behind it with their coach, Dominic Casey, while seeking improvements every few weeks. They don’t see their training as a means to an end but rather appreciate the routine and everyday intricacies that come with it.
Having been partners since 2019 when McCarthy first joined, they admitted to experiencing “impostor syndrome” initially. However, their stellar achievements, which include a couple of European titles, three World Championships and two Olympic gold medals, have served as the best antidote against these feelings. Both McCarthy and O’Donovan have always been transparent about their sport, shunning any attempts to shroud it in secrecy. Their boat, which is a marvel of engineering, is likened to a rocket ship. The pair take pride in their work, and for them, their success is a testament to their dedication and proof that their strategies have been effective. They find the talk of winning gold somewhat surreal and unfamiliar but are delighted that their hard work has borne fruit.
The season was hindered by complications. McCarthy endured prolonged bouts of illness and injury in the initial months of the year, which interrupted his training regime. Their ranking was third at the World Cup race in Lucerne, with McCarthy’s training being insufficient. However, these challenges were addressed over the final two months.
O’Donovan expressed, “Fintan performed extraordinarily this morning,” pointing out that McCarthy’s vitality helped bring them to the lead.
Reflecting on the season, McCarthy shared, “I feel like I was slightly off my game for a while this year.” He added, “But, I managed to turn things around. I count myself lucky to have had Paul by my side all year, providing consistent support. I did some catching up towards the end and it all aligned well.”
The aura at the regatta was downright electric. From their advanced location in a tent where they maintained their boat pre-race, O’Donovan observed the sea of green shirts and Irish flags in the audience stands. Post-race, they were greeted by an eager Irish crowd, where they posed for photographs, signed shirts and shared smiles.
“It was remarkable,” said McCarthy. “The extent of Irish cheering in the spectators – it’s unprecedented. Looking into the crowd and recognising friends, family, and steadfast supports is simply phenomenal.”
They have indeed been privy to an exceptional display of excellence, one that will endure through time.