In an extraordinary turn of events, Daniel Wiffen stepped away from the medal stand, sporting an Irish flag and wearing a persistent smile, yet facing questions about his disappointment due to his Olympic bronze medal performance. It seems as if the uncertainty overwhelmed the pride of donning the Irish flag while the anthems were played – an unnerving new normal. It’s a peculiar time indeed.
Wiffen secured a third-place finish falling behind a globe-shattering swim by Bobby Finke of the US. Despite the formidable American swimming contingent in Paris, a gold medal eluded them for the men’s individual events until this last contest. In such a scenario, Wiffen’s bronze should not be perceived as a letdown.
Regardless, a subtle unease remains. Wiffen’s ability to redefine expectations may emerge as his most enduring accomplishment this week. Nowadays, anything short of a gold incites questions, not just from external observers. Even amidst a family group embrace, there was no escaping this reality.
Amusingly, he discussed the stern gaze he received from his twin brother, Nathan, after his race. He paraphrased, “ I’ve earned a bronze medal, back off,” in response to Nathan’s apparent dissatisfaction. He acknowledged that Nathan might be his harshest reviewer, but affirmed his family’s happiness for him. Post-event, Wiffen planned to call Nathan knowing full well he would have something to remark.
“I’m happy. I know they are proud of me,” Wiffen commented determinedly. He light-heartedly suggested demonstrating his gold medal rather than his bronze upon their reunion. Despite everything, he maintained, “I’m still an Olympic champion, regardless!”
Wiffen stands as more than just a medalist. His achievement of securing a bronze in the 1500m freestyle event paints him as the inaugural Irish sportsperson to win several Olympic medals in a single tournament. Besides emerging as a recognisable worldwide figurehead in this eminent Olympic sport, he is predicted to participate in future games in Los Angeles and possibly Brisbane. Importantly, Wiffen represents a beacon in the field of Irish swimming, providing hope to a sport endeared for a figure to advocate for.
His spectators flocked in multitudes to witness his prowess. From the proximity of the pool to the highest areas of La Defense Arena, spectators wearing green were observed in every nook and corner. Overwhelmed with Wiffen’s success, they idolised him. Their stupor transcended boundaries; having witnessed Wiffen’s steady progression to yet another Olympic final and subsequently securing a medal was indeed a marvel.
Irish swimming enthusiasts were seen savouring every bit of the moment. These ardent devotees were regarded as the sport’s saviours, tirelessly committed to rejuvenating a sport that had been on the brink of extinction due to various obstacles – scandals, mishaps involving Michelle de Bruin, and years of government apathy. The idea of witnessing such a week of triumph was beyond their wildest dreams.
They were seen engrossed, rooting for Wiffen until he secured the bronze. To them, their reaction was not of disappointment, but of absolute ecstasy that was beyond comprehension.
For Wiffen, expressing his emotion in words seemed a considerable challenge. His sentences overlapped, and some thoughts veered off-course. It was a reminder that the young athlete had just celebrated his 23rd birthday at the beginning of July. Despite giving an air of nonchalance as part of his front, sincerity inevitably surfaced.
“I believe this week was among the most emotionally taxing I’ve ever encountered,” Wiffen confessed. “I may seem undaunted, but the reality was that I was overwhelmingly scared each time I walked out to compete. I am relieved it’s over, as it means I don’t have to face these nerve-wracking moments until the next competition.”
“I take great pride in myself for delivering two commendable performances in the finals. The exhilaration of earning a gold medal is immense. Yet, after clinching the 800, my only focus became preparation for the 1,500. I hardly got an opportunity to savour the victory. I merely had a glance at the medal for a couple of hours prior to retiring for the night. It was immediately stashed back into the box, not to be seen unless the meet was over. The whole process was emotionally taxing and now I am relieved that it has come to an end.”
Securing a bronze medal capped off what has been an extraordinary weekend in Irish sports history. Across three days, and three different sports, three medals were won, with Ireland’s most successful Olympic boxer displaying her skills in the meantime. The weekend saw power-packed performances from Paul O’Donovan and Fintan McCarthy on Friday, Rhys McClenaghan and Kellie Harrington on Saturday, followed by Wiffen on Sunday. Rowing, gymnastics, boxing, swimming – a mixed bag of Olympic events, all producing stellar results.
Yet, they’re not finished. McClenaghan announced to a group of Irish reporters that his next goal is to expand his skills and aim for the all-around title in Los Angeles in four years. As for Rowers, the talk about bulking and transitioning to heavyweight by 2028 has already been initiated. Harrington, who was previously unwavering on her decision to retire, seems to be having second thoughts, admitting she might continue in national level competitions.
Wiffen, for his part, shows no signs of ending his campaign this week or even in the foreseeable future. He still maintains his ambition to participate in the open water 10km swim due this Friday. Persevering relentlessly appears to be their chosen path, the only way they know how to proceed.
Seven medals make these Olympics officially the most successful one for Ireland so far. And it’s not done yet.