Shortlisted Nominees for the Olympic Sport Awards 2025

The OSA Shortlist

The OFI received a huge number of nominations for the 2025 Olympic Sport Awards from members of the public, Olympians, High Performance Directors and National Governing Bodies.

Following the closing of nominations, the judging panel met to compile a shortlist of nominees across nine categories.

Voting

From November 1st – 14th, members of the public got the chance to cast their vote in eight of these categories. This public vote goes in to the mix with the judging panel decision when deciding who is announced as the winner at the Awards night on December 6th 2025.

Nominees

Female Athlete of the Year

Sponsored by

Awarded to an exceptional female athlete who has delivered outstanding success in an Olympic sport in 2025, this honour celebrates an individual whose unwavering pursuit of excellence has not only inspired the nation but also elevated Ireland’s presence and reputation on the world stage through their remarkable achievements.

Shortlist (in alphabetical order)

Aoife O’Rourke

Aoife O’Rourke is nominated for Team Ireland Female Athlete of the Year following an extraordinary 2025 season that confirmed her status as one of the world’s leading boxers.

A two-time Olympian and current world number one in the 75kg division, she won silver at the IBA Women’s World Championships before going on to claim gold at the World Boxing Championships later in the year, achieving a historic double rarely seen in international boxing.

Her performances captured national and international attention, reflecting both her athletic excellence and her grounded character.

Beyond the ring, Aoife continues to inspire through her advocacy for girls’ participation in sport and her achievements across disciplines, including winning the Hyrox World Championship in women’s doubles with her sister Lisa.

Her consistent “just try it” message, combined with her achievements across disciplines, makes her a powerful role model for women and girls, and a true embodiment of the Olympic spirit of fair play, unity, and the joy of sport.

2025 Results:

  • Gold Medal, Hyrox World Championships (non-Olympic).
  • Gold Medal, World Championships.
  • Silver Medal, IBA World Championships
Fiona Murtagh

Fiona Murtagh is nominated for Team Ireland Female Athlete of the Year following an exceptional 2025 season that cemented her status as one of Ireland’s leading Olympic athletes.

She won gold in the Women’s Single Sculls at the World Rowing Championships in Shanghai in a thrilling photo finish, becoming a world champion in one of the most competitive events. Earlier in the year, she claimed silver at both the European Championships in Plovdiv and the World Rowing Cup in Lucerne, demonstrating remarkable consistency at the highest level.

Transitioning from team-boat success to individual world champion, Fiona showcased strength, versatility and technical excellence. What makes her achievement even more remarkable is that she combines her training and competition with a full-time job.

Beyond her results, she is admired for her humility, leadership and mentorship of younger athletes, as well as her engagement with women in sport initiatives and the wider community. Her 2025 achievements highlight both her elite performance and her role as an inspiring ambassador for Irish sport.

2025 Results:

  • Silver Medal, World Cup Lucerne
  • Gold Medal, World Championships
  • Silver Medal, European Championships
Kate O’Connor

Kate O’Connor is nominated for Team Ireland Female Athlete of the Year following her historic achievement at the 2025 World Athletics Championships, where she won silver in the heptathlon.

She became the first Irish athlete ever to medal in a combined event at World level, as well as securing Ireland’s first World Championships medal in athletics since 2013 and the first by an Irish female track athlete since 2009.

The World Championship result finished a season where she broke her national record four times as well as winning medals at the European and World Indoor Championships as well as the World Student Games.

Competing against the world’s best, Kate shows exceptional skill, consistency and determination. Beyond her results, she is admired for her professionalism, humility and positive influence as a role model for young athletes. Her breakthrough season marks a defining moment for Irish athletics and underlines her place among Ireland’s most accomplished athletes.

2025 Results:

  • Four national records, consistently ranked top five in world rankings.
  • Silver medal, World Athletics Championships in Tokyo (heptathlon).
  • Bronze medal, European Indoor Championships (pentathlon).
  • Silver medal, World Indoor Championships (pentathlon).
  • Gold medal, FISU World University Games (heptathlon)
Lara Gillespie

Lara Gillespie is nominated for Team Ireland Female Athlete of the Year following a landmark 2025 season that established her as one of Ireland’s most versatile and accomplished cyclists.

She won gold in the Elimination Race at the European Track Championships and achieved historic results on the road, including third place on Stage 4 of the Tour de France Femmes and multiple podium finishes at international events such as À Travers Les Hauts de France, the UAE Tour, La Choralis Fourmis Feminine, and Binche–Chimay–Binche pour Dames.

Her 2025 season culminated with her greatest achievement so far when she became World Champion in the elimination at the UCI World Track Championships in Santiago, Chile.

Competing successfully across both track and road disciplines, Lara demonstrated exceptional consistency, technical skill, and resilience.

Beyond her performances, she is a committed mentor and advocate for women in sport, inspiring the next generation of cyclists through workshops, Q&A sessions, and direct engagement with young athletes.

2025 Results:

  • Gold Medal, UCI World Track Championships (Elimination)
  • 5th place, European Track Championships (Madison)
  • Gold Medal, European Championships (Elimination Race)
  • 3rd Place, Tour de France Feminine Stage 4
  • Sprints Jersey, UAE Tour Women
  • 1st Place, A Travers les Hauts de France (1.1)
  • 2nd Place, Binche – Chimay – Binche (1.1)
  • 2nd Place, La Choralis Fourmies Feminine (1.pro)
  • 4th place, European Track Championships (Points)

Male Athlete of the Year

Sponsored by

Awarded to an exceptional male athlete who has delivered outstanding success in an Olympic sport in 2025, this honour celebrates an individual whose unwavering pursuit of excellence has not only inspired the nation but also elevated Ireland’s presence and reputation on the world stage through their remarkable achievements.

Shortlist (in alphabetical order)

Ben Healy

Ben Healy is nominated for Team Ireland Male Athlete of the Year following a landmark 2025 season that established him among the world’s elite road cyclists.

A Paris 2024 Olympian, he won bronze in the Men’s Elite Road Race at the UCI World Championships – Ireland’s first medal in the event since the 1980s – and achieved a defining Tour de France campaign, winning Stage 6 with a solo breakaway, wearing the Yellow Jersey for two days, and finishing 9th overall and 4th in the Youth Classification.

Healy also earned podiums at Liege–Bastogne–Liege, Strade Bianche, and Itzulia Basque Country. His performances demonstrated tactical brilliance, resilience, and fearlessness, marking him as a world-class competitor and a leading figure in Irish cycling.

2025 Results:

  • Bronze Medal, World Road Cycling Championships
  • Yellow Jersey holder, Tour de France
  • Winner, Tour de France Stage 6
  • Podium, Itzulia Basque Country
  • Podium, Liege-Bastogne-Liege
  • Podium, Strade Bianche
Cian McPhilips

Cian McPhillips is nominated for the Make Athlete of the Year following a breakthrough 2025 season that marked him as one of Ireland’s most exciting talents in middle-distance running.

At the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, he became the first Irish man to qualify for a World Championships 800m final, breaking the Irish record twice, 1:43.18 in the semi-final and 1:42.15 in the final, and finishing fourth in one of the fastest races in history.

A European Indoor finalist and Irish national champion, Cian has demonstrated world-class ability, resilience after a serious back injury, and the potential to compete consistently at senior elite level.

His performances have elevated Ireland’s profile in athletics and inspired the next generation.

2025 Results:

  • 4th in the World Athletic Championships.
Fintan McCarthy

Fintan McCarthy is nominated for Team Ireland Male Athlete of the Year following an exceptional 2025 season that reinforced his status as one of the world’s leading rowers.  

A two-time Olympic gold medallist, he successfully transitioned from lightweight to open-weight competition, winning gold in the Mixed Double Sculls with Mags Cremin and bronze in the Men’s Double Sculls with Philip Doyle at the World Rowing Championships in Shanghai.  

Earlier in the year, he also secured European and World Cup bronzes in the Men’s Double Sculls, demonstrating remarkable consistency across multiple events and partnerships.  

Fintan’s technical mastery, adaptability and leadership, combined with his professionalism and humility, underline his continued world-class impact and his role as an inspiring ambassador for Irish rowing. 

2025 Results

  • Fintan McCarthy and Margaret Cremen – World Gold Medallists 
  • Fintan McCarthy and Philip Doyle – World Bronze Medallists 
  • Fintan McCarthy and Konan Pazzaia – World Cup Bronze Medallists  
  • Fintan McCarthy and Konan Pazzaia – European Bronze Medallists 
Rory McIlroy

Rory McIlroy is nominated for Team Ireland Male Athlete of the Year following a historic 2025 season that ranks among the greatest in Irish sporting history.

A two-time Olympian, he completed the career Grand Slam by winning The Masters at Augusta National, cementing his place among golf’s all-time greats.

He also won The Players Championship and the Irish Open, and played a pivotal role in Europe’s Ryder Cup victory at Pebble Beach.

Competing at the highest level under immense pressure, Rory demonstrated exceptional resilience, precision and consistency.

His achievements in 2025 not only highlight his world-class talent but also solidify his legacy as Ireland’s greatest golfer.

2025 Results:

  • Winner, Ryder Cup, playing a pivotal role in the European victory.
  • Winner, US Masters at Augusta National.
  • Winner, The Players Championship.
  • Winner, Irish Open

Coach of the Year

Sponsored by

This award honours a coach whose passion, innovation, and leadership has led to remarkable success in 2025 – elevating an athlete, multiple athletes or team to new heights.

Shortlist (in alphabetical order)

Dominic Casey

Athletes Under Coaching Remit
Fintan McCarthy, Philip Doyle, Jake McCarthy, Fiona Murtagh & Mags Cremin + Others; Paul O’Donovan and Fintan McCarthy

Summary
Dominic Casey has been central to Ireland’s continued rise in world rowing, guiding athletes to exceptional success through his calm leadership, technical excellence and innovative approach.

As Rowing Ireland’s Interim Programme Lead Coach, he oversaw a remarkable 2025 season that included Fintan McCarthy’s gold in the Mixed Double Sculls and bronze in the Men’s Double Sculls at the World Championships, and Fiona Murtagh’s historic gold in the Women’s Single Sculls — Ireland’s first world title in that event.

Under his direction, Irish crews also delivered consistent European and World Cup podium finishes, reflecting the depth of the High-Performance programme he has shaped. Dominc is also responsible for three of Ireland’s five Olympic medals – as the coach of the lightweight programme that won two golds and a silver at the last three Olympics.

Beyond medals, Dominic’s integration of performance analytics, biomechanics and sports science into training has strengthened Ireland’s reputation as a global rowing force. His commitment to athlete development, collaboration and excellence has transformed the culture of Irish rowing and inspired sustained international success.


2025 Success

  • Jake McCarthy – World Bronze Medallist Lightweight Single.
  • Fiona Murtagh – World Champion Single.
  • Fintan McCarthy and Margaret Cremen – World Champions Mixed Doubles.
  • Fiona Murtagh – World Cup Silver Medallist Single.
  • Fiona Murtagh – Silver Medallist European Championships Single.
  • Fintan McCarthy and Philip Doyle – World Bronze Medallists Doubles.
  • Fintan McCarthy and Konan Pazzaia – World Cup Bronze Medallists Doubles.
  • Fintan McCarthy and Konan Pazzaia – European Bronze Medallists Doubles
John Szaranek

Athletes Under Coaching Remit
John Shortt, Ellie McCartney, Eoin Corby, Roisin Ní Ríain, Evan Bailey

Summary
John Szaranek has had an outstanding impact on Irish swimming in 2025, guiding a diverse group of athletes to unprecedented international success through his leadership, technical expertise, and athlete-centred approach.

As Head Coach at Swim Ireland’s National Centre in Limerick, he oversaw 14 international medals, 16 Irish records and more than 30 international final or semi-final appearances across junior, U23, senior, and para events.

Standout performances included John Shortt’s double World Junior titles, Ellie McCartney’s European U23 medal haul, and Róisín Ní Riain’s five medals at the World Para Swimming Championships.

John’s holistic coaching philosophy, adaptability and attention to detail have cultivated a collaborative environment that supports both able-bodied and para athletes, strengthens the high-performance pathway, and ensures consistent progression from junior to senior levels. His work continues to build Ireland’s international swimming success and prepares athletes for future global competitions.

2025 Results

  • John Shortt – 2 x Gold World Junior Championships
  • John Shortt – Bronze Medal World Championships
  • John Shortt – Gold Medal European Championships
  • John Shortt – Bronze Medal European Championships
  • Ellie McCartney – Gold European U23 Championships
  • Ellie McCartney – Silver European U23 Championships
  • Ellie McCartney – Bronze European U23 Championships
  • Eoin Corby – Silver Medal European U23 Championships14
  • Roisin Ní Riain – 3 x Silver Medal World Para Swimming Championships
  • Roisin Ní Riain – 2 x Bronze Medal World Para Swimming Championships
Michael O’Connor

Athletes Under Coaching Remit
Kate O’Connor

Summary
Michael O’Connor has had a transformative impact on Irish athletics through his innovative and athlete-centred coaching. In 2025, he guided Kate O’Connor to a historic season marked by multiple international medals, including silver at both the World Championships (heptathlon) and World Indoors (pentathlon), and bronze at the European Indoors, along with four new national records.

His meticulous planning, technical expertise and advanced periodisation strategies enabled her to peak consistently across seasons, all while training entirely in Ireland, a rare achievement in combined events.

Beyond medals, Michael’s leadership and innovative methods have raised the standard of coaching in Ireland, inspired a new generation and shown that world-class success can be achieved through belief, precision and collaboration.

Results

  • Kate O’Conor – Silver medal World Athletics Championships in Tokyo (heptathlon)
  • Kate O’Connor – Bronze medal European Indoor Championships (pentathlon)
  • Kate O’Connor – Silver medal World Indoor Championships (pentathlon)
  • Kate O’Connor – Four national records, consistently ranked top five in world rankings

Community Impact Award

Sponsored by

Spar & Eurospar logo

This award celebrates the outstanding contribution of an individual or group, from an athlete, coach, volunteer, club, club member, or representative of a National Federation, whose actions have made a transformative difference to the lives of others.

Honouring those who go above and beyond, this Award recognises a person or group of people whose passion, dedication, and leadership have created lasting change, fostered inclusion, and strengthened the connection between sport and community.

Shortlist (in alphabetical order)

Cricket Connects Summer Camp

When a youth sports camp in Co. Down was unexpectedly cancelled in summer 2025, Cricket Ireland responded with leadership and inclusivity — stepping in to deliver a special Cricket Connects camp that brought together more than 150 children from across Northern Ireland and Donegal. In partnership with local community groups and sporting bodies, young people from cricket, GAA, rugby, and hockey came together for a full day of shared learning, teamwork, and fun, showing how sport can bridge divides and foster understanding.

The Cricket Connects initiative is part of Cricket Ireland’s wider community engagement strategy, designed to use sport as a platform for inclusion, participation, and peacebuilding. The 2025 camp was a powerful example of that ethos in action. Coaches and volunteers from across codes worked side by side, introducing children to cricket and other sports while promoting respect, cooperation, and shared enjoyment. Parents and community leaders from diverse backgrounds praised the event for its positivity and its message of unity.

This initiative demonstrated tangible social impact — transforming a potential setback into a story of connection and collaboration. It has strengthened local relationships across communities and showcased how the spirit of sport can transcend differences. Through Cricket Connects, Cricket Ireland continues to show leadership beyond the boundary, using sport as a unifying force that supports peace, inclusion, and community resilience across the island of Ireland.

Supporting Links and/or Evidence:

Inbhear Dee Athletics Club – Noreen O’Reilly, Eithne Walsh and Anne-Marie Kelly

Summary
Noreen O’Reilly, alongside Eithne Walsh and Anne-Marie Kelly, has made an extraordinary and lasting contribution to athletics in Wicklow through their leadership, coaching, and community engagement at Inbhear Dee AC. Over more than 40 years, Noreen has nurtured thousands of athletes, producing two Olympians, Stephanie Reilly and Roisin McGettigan, alongside numerous Irish champions and international competitors.

Eithne Walsh, as head coach, has provided vision and persistence, driving athlete development and ensuring high-quality coaching. Anne-Marie Kelly has also played a pivotal role in club organisation and athlete support, helping maintain an inclusive, welcoming environment for athletes of all ages. Together, their combined dedication has sustained the club through decades, even during periods of minimal facilities and resources.

In 2025, the trio were instrumental in delivering the Hawkstown Running Trail, Inbhear Dee AC’s first dedicated training facility. Working with Wicklow County Council, they secured approval, mobilised volunteers, and oversaw construction of the 1000m soft-surface trail in just seven days, funded through the club’s Christmas Road Race.

The trail now provides a safe and professional training environment for over 200 junior and senior athletes, boosting participation and membership. Beyond facilities, they continue to organise school cross-country and track events, mark courses for county championships, and offer hands-on coaching and mentoring.

Their leadership, vision, and tireless commitment have strengthened community participation in athletics, fostered inclusivity, and created pathways for future Olympians and champions, making them collectively deserving of the Community Impact Award.

Supporting Links and/or Evidence:

Rhys McClenaghan’s Club Tour

Summary

In 2025, Olympic champion Rhys McClenaghan and Gymnastics Ireland launched the Rhys McClenaghan Club Tour, an inspirational nationwide initiative that brought the Olympic spirit directly to gymnastics clubs and young athletes across the country. Following his historic gold medal win at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Rhys embarked on a tour of eight Gymnastics Ireland clubs, personally meeting over 520 young gymnasts and their coaches.

Clubs were invited to enter a national draw in May 2025, with the winning entries receiving a once-in-a-lifetime visit from Ireland’s first Olympic gymnastics champion. Each session combined motivation, mentorship, and hands-on coaching. Rhys shared his journey from his early days in local clubs to Olympic success, offering an honest and inspiring account of the resilience, dedication, and belief required to reach the highest level. Gymnasts then took part in a coaching masterclass where Rhys shared practical tips and performance insights, before every participant had the opportunity to hold and photograph his Olympic gold medal, creating a tangible and unforgettable connection to sporting excellence.

The impact of the tour reached far beyond technical training. For many young athletes, it was the first time meeting an Olympic champion and hearing a story that reflected their own dreams and challenges. The tour fostered pride, motivation, and community within clubs, strengthening the bond between elite and grassroots gymnastics.

Through this initiative, Gymnastics Ireland and Rhys McClenaghan demonstrated the true power of sport to inspire, educate, and connect communities. The Rhys McClenaghan Club Tour exemplifies the Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect, leaving a lasting legacy of belief and aspiration among Ireland’s next generation of gymnasts.

Supporting Links and/or Evidence:

Creator of the Year

Sponsored by

McKvr logo

Shortlist (in alphabetical order)

Ayeisha McFerran

Ayeisha McFerran, goalkeeper for the Irish Ladies Hockey Team, has built a compelling digital presence in 2025 that brings fans closer to the realities of elite sport. Through her Instagram content, she shares the highs and lows of training, injuries, club moves, and competition, while also giving insight into life off the pitch. Her storytelling is honest, engaging, and relatable, creating meaningful connections with her followers.

Her podcast, ‘Unboxed’, deep dives into diverse topics with a range of guests, offering thoughtful discussion, insight, and behind-the-scenes perspectives that go beyond the field. Through this platform, Ayeisha has expanded the visibility of Irish hockey and Olympic sport more broadly, inspiring fans and athletes alike. By combining social media engagement with podcasting, she demonstrates innovation, authenticity, and measurable impact, making her a standout nominee for the Creator of the Year Award.

Supporting Links and/or Evidence:

Instagram:

@ayeishamcferran

@_unboxedpod

Daniel Wiffen & Nathan Wiffen (Olympic Vlog)

Summary
Daniel and Nathan Wiffen are transforming what it means to be elite athletes in the digital age. Through their ‘Wiffen Twins’ YouTube channel and documentary series ‘Against the Clock’, they offer an authentic, unfiltered look at life at the top of Irish swimming, sharing the grind of training, the highs of racing, and the challenges of setbacks like Daniel’s appendicitis and Nathan’s move to the NCAA. Their content blends humour, insight, and technical analysis, making the human side of elite sport relatable and inspiring a global audience.

With 94,000 Instagram followers and 67,000 YouTube subscribers, their reach is substantial, connecting fans worldwide and building engagement that elevates Irish swimming. In 2025, Daniel’s world-leading 7:41.52 800m freestyle at the Irish Open, plus record-breaking performances at the Mare Nostrum Swim Tour, reinforced their credibility as athletes, while their storytelling amplifies it. By merging top-level performance with creativity, honesty, and digital innovation, the Wiffen Twins have set a new standard for athlete-led content and inspired the next generation, embodying the spirit of the Creator of the Year Award.

Supporting Links and/or Evidence:

Rhys McClenaghan

Olympic Champion, Rhys McClenaghan has become one of the most influential voices in gymnastics and Irish Olympic sport in 2025. As the fourth most followed gymnast in Europe on Instagram, with 150,000 followers verified by global sports agency Two Circles, he uses his platform to take fans behind the scenes of elite gymnastics.

His engaging vlogs document everything from training and competition to rehabilitation and day-to-day life, offering an authentic, relatable insight into the world of a world-class gymnast.

Beyond storytelling, Rhys has leveraged his digital presence to collaborate with Gymnastics Ireland and his global partners, creatively merging sport, lifestyle, and community engagement. His content consistently drives awareness and connection, inspiring young athletes and engaging fans internationally, while raising the profile of Irish gymnastics.

Through innovative use of digital platforms and compelling personal storytelling, Rhys has had a measurable impact on participation, visibility, and engagement, making him a standout nominee for Creator of the Year.

Supporting Links and/or Evidence:

High Performance Programme of the Year

Sponsored by

At the heart of Team Ireland’s achievements lie the tireless efforts of our member National Federations, whose leadership, expertise, and vision shape the success of our athletes.

This award honours the National Governing Body whose high performance programme has delivered exceptional results on the Olympic stage in 2025.

Through a steadfast commitment to athlete development, innovative performance pathways, and sustainable systems for long-term success, the recipient exemplifies the highest standards of excellence in Irish sport.

High Performance Programme of the Year is decided by the Olympic Sport Awards judging panel and not open to public vote.

Shortlist (in alphabetical order)

Cycling Ireland High Performance Unit

Cycling Ireland’s High Performance Programme delivered one of its most successful competitive seasons in 2025, achieving world-class results across track, road, para, and downhill disciplines.

Landmark achievements included Lara Gillespie’s historic European Track Championship gold in the Elimination Race, Ben Healy’s Tour de France stage win and yellow jersey tenure coupled with a bronze at the UCI Road World Championships — Ireland’s first medal in that event in 36 years — and breakthrough U23 victories for Adam Rafferty and Seth Dunwoody at the Baby Giro.

Para-cyclists Katie-George Dunlevy and Linda Kelly claimed double gold at the World Championships, while Ronan Dunne excelled in downhill mountain biking with World Cup gold and World Championship bronze. At the UEC European Road Championships, emerging talents Adam Rafferty, Conor Murphy, and David Gaffney secured three medals, highlighting the strength of Ireland’s developmental pipeline.

The programme’s success is underpinned by a robust, structured performance pathway from grassroots to elite level, supported by the Sport Ireland Institute and newly developed discipline-specific strategies for Olympic and Paralympic cycling.

Innovation in biomechanics, aerodynamics, and athlete monitoring, alongside integrated athlete support teams, ensures holistic development, while strong governance and a professionalised High Performance Unit provide strategic oversight and operational excellence.

2025 also saw investment in talent identification and pathway camps, producing new national squad entrants and strengthening future competitiveness. Cycling Ireland’s combination of historic results, forward-looking strategy, and investment in innovation firmly establishes it as a world-class system with sustainable success on the road to LA 2028 and beyond.

Supporting Links and/or Evidence:

Rowing Ireland High Performance Programme


Rowing Ireland’s High Performance Programme continued its record-breaking trajectory in 2025, delivering world-class results across senior, U23, and U19 levels. At the World Championships in Shanghai, Fiona Murtagh claimed gold in the Women’s Single Sculls — her first World Championship title and Ireland’s first in this event.

Fintan McCarthy and Mags Cremen won gold in the Mixed Double Sculls, while Fintan McCarthy and Philip Doyle, and Jake McCarthy, secured bronze in the Men’s Double and Lightweight Single Sculls respectively. Success extended to European and World Cup events, with multiple medals across senior crews, and U23 and U19 athletes, including Jack Rafferty and Jonah Kirby capturing Ireland’s first-ever U19 men’s double sculls gold. These performances underline the programme’s depth, consistency, and international competitiveness.

The programme’s achievements reflect a clear, structured pathway from grassroots to Olympic level, supported by investment in coaching, sports science, and multidisciplinary athlete support teams. Innovation in technology, analytics, and recovery is embedded alongside mental performance, dual-career, and leadership development systems. Inclusivity is evident across men’s, women’s, lightweight, and mixed disciplines, with open communication and athlete-led accountability shaping a positive culture.

With expansion into emerging disciplines such as Beach Sprint rowing, Rowing Ireland is combining historic results with a sustainable long-term vision, setting the benchmark for performance sport in Ireland.

Supporting Links and/or Evidence:

Swim Ireland

2025 was a landmark year for Swim Ireland, with record-breaking results across junior, U23, and senior levels showcasing the strength and depth of the nation’s swimming pathway. At the World Aquatics Championships, Ellen Walshe, Daniel Wiffen, and Ellie McCartney reached finals while three Irish senior records were broken.

The European U23 Championships brought four podiums, including gold for McCartney (200m IM), while the European and World Junior Championships saw John Shortt claim double world titles in the 100m and 200m Backstroke alongside multiple Irish records. Shane Ryan added a bronze at the World Short Course Championships, with the programme amassing 16 international podiums, 25 top-eight finishes, and 39 Irish records across all levels.

These results reflect the excellence of Swim Ireland’s Performance Pathway, from regional academies to national centres, providing structured support from grassroots to elite. Innovations such as state-of-the-art technical analysis, combined with athlete welfare, dual career support, and a strong culture of inclusion and teamwork, have created an environment where Irish swimmers can compete consistently at the highest international level.

The programme’s effectiveness is evident in the smooth transition of eight U23 swimmers to senior World Championship finals and the sustained global success of athletes across all disciplines, positioning Swim Ireland as a model of high-performance sport.

Supporting Links and/or Evidence:

Olympic Sporting Moment of the Year

Sponsored by

Fiat logo

In every race run, every dive taken, and every game played, lies the potential to create a moment that transcends sport.

Among the countless performances across the 47 Olympic disciplines, a few ignite something deeper – capturing the imagination of a nation and reminding us of what’s possible. This award celebrates the defining moment of 2025 that moved, united, and inspired Ireland; a singular expression of Olympic spirit at its most powerful.

Shortlist (in alphabetical order)

Ben Healy Wins Stage and Takes Yellow Jersey at Tour de France

Ben Healy delivered a historic performance at the 2025 Tour de France, marking a significant milestone in Irish cycling. On Stage 6, Healy launched a daring solo attack 42.6 km from the finish, ultimately crossing the line 2 minutes and 44 seconds ahead of his nearest rival, Quinn Simmons. This victory not only secured his first-ever Tour de France stage win but also ended a five-year wait for an Irish stage win, following Sam Bennett’s triumph on the Champs-Élysées in 2020.

Four days later, Healy’s strategic brilliance and tenacity propelled him into the yellow jersey after finishing third on Stage 10. This achievement made him the first Irish cyclist since Stephen Roche in 1987 to lead the Tour de France, joining an elite group that includes Seán Kelly and Shay Elliott. His performance was a testament to his dedication and skill, capturing the imagination of cycling fans worldwide.

Healy’s remarkable journey through the Tour de France not only elevated his status in the cycling world but also reignited national pride in Ireland. His victories and leadership resonated deeply, inspiring a new generation of cyclists and reaffirming Ireland’s rich history in the sport. The media coverage and public enthusiasm surrounding his achievements underscored the profound impact of his performances on both a national and global scale.ampionship gold in the Elimination Race, Ben Healy’s Tour de France stage win and yellow jersey tenure coupled with a bronze at the UCI Road World Championships — Ireland’s first medal in that event in 36 years — and breakthrough U23 victories for Adam Rafferty and Seth Dunwoody at the Baby Giro.

Supporting Links and/or Evidence:

Kate O’Connor’s World Silver Medal


Kate O’Connor made history at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, winning silver in the heptathlon and becoming the first Irish athlete ever to medal in a combined event at World or Olympic level. Her performance, delivered against the very best in the world, was a breakthrough moment for Irish athletics, marking the nation’s first World Championships medal in over a decade and the first by an Irish female track athlete since 2009.

Beyond the result, Kate’s achievement has given great belief to athletes across Ireland that they can compete and succeed on the world stage, while giving Irish sport a genuine lift. Her performance embodied composure, resilience, and excellence, qualities that have made her one of Ireland’s most inspirational sporting figures.

Supporting Links and/or Evidence:

Rory McIlory Putts to Win the US Masters

Summary

Two-time Olympian Rory McIlroy completed golf’s greatest journey in 2025, winning the Masters Tournament at Augusta National to finally secure the career Grand Slam. In a moment that will stand among Ireland’s finest sporting triumphs, McIlroy held his nerve through a tense final round, blending composure and brilliance to don the iconic Green Jacket.

For over a decade, the Masters had eluded him, the missing piece in a glittering career that already included four major titles and Olympic appearances at Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024. Victory at Augusta was more than a sporting milestone; it was a moment of redemption, resilience, and fulfilment that captivated the world and reaffirmed McIlroy’s place among golf’s all-time greats.

McIlroy’s Masters triumph resonated deeply both in Ireland and internationally. In Ireland, it was celebrated as a national milestone, with widespread media coverage and heartfelt reactions from fans and fellow athletes alike. Globally, his achievement drew admiration as a testament to perseverance, skill, and unwavering determination. The victory has inspired countless individuals, cementing his legacy and leaving an indelible mark on the history of golf.

Rising Star 2025

Sponsored by

This award shines a spotlight on the next generation of Irish sporting greatness – recognising a young athlete under the age of 25 who is boldly forging their path on the Olympic stage.

The Rising Star Award celebrates not only exceptional performances, but the passion, promise, and fearless ambition that signal a future champion in the making. It is a tribute to the emerging talent lighting the way forward for Team Ireland.

Shortlist (in alphabetical order)

Eve McMahon

Eve McMahon is nominated for the Rising Star Award following a phenomenal 2025 season that established her as one of the world’s leading sailors.

At just 21, she became the first Irish female sailor to win a World Championship medal, claiming bronze at the ILCA 6 World Championships in China, while also winning gold at the LA Sailing Grand Slam, silver at the Grand Slam Final in Almere, and bronze at the U23 European Championships.

Ranked World No. 1 in the ILCA 6 class, Eve has demonstrated technical mastery, competitive maturity, and consistency at the highest level.

Having represented Ireland at the Paris 2024 Olympics, she has transitioned seamlessly to senior competition, while also mentoring younger sailors and promoting women in sport. Her achievements, world ranking, and leadership mark her as a rising star with strong potential for LA 2028.

2025 Results:

  • Bronze Medal European U23 Championships
  • Bronze Medal World Championships
  • World Number One
  • Gold Grand Slam LA
John Shortt


John Shortt is nominated for the Rising Star Award following an exceptional 2025 season that established him as one of Ireland’s most promising young swimmers.

At just 18, he became World Junior Champion in both the 100m and 200m Backstroke, added bronze in the 50m Backstroke, and claimed European Junior gold in the 100m and bronze in the 200m.

He also set new Irish Senior and Junior Records in the 200m Backstroke (1:56.61) and Irish Junior Records in the 100m Backstroke (53.90), becoming only the third Irish swimmer ever under 54 seconds in that event.

Balancing elite sport with academics, John excelled at European Junior, World Junior, and World Senior Championships, demonstrating resilience, technical mastery, and competitive composure.

His achievements, progression to senior international level, and potential for future Olympic success mark him as a standout rising talent in Irish sport.

2025 Results:

  • Bronze Medal European Championships
  • 2 x Gold World Junior Championships
  • Bronze Medal World Championships
  • Gold Medal European Championships
Patsy Joyce

Patsy Joyce is nominated for the Rising Star Award following a breakthrough 2025 season, highlighted by bronze at the World Boxing Championships, a landmark achievement that places him among Ireland’s most promising young boxers.

Coming from a family with a rich Olympic and world-class boxing tradition, Patsy has combined technical skill, mental resilience, and tactical intelligence to rise from club level to the world podium.

His performance reflects both personal dedication and the strength of Ireland’s High Performance pathway, confirming his potential to compete at senior and Olympic level while continuing the legacy of Irish boxing excellence.

2025 Results:

  • Bronze Medal World Boxing Championships

Team of the Year

Sponsored by

This award celebrates a team whose unity, determination, and shared pursuit of excellence have delivered a truly outstanding performance on the world or European stage in 2025. Honouring more than just results, it recognises the collective spirit that drives Irish teams to greatness – a group that has proudly represented Ireland at the highest level and exemplified the power of working together toward a common dream.

Shortlist (in alphabetical order)         

Equestrian – Senior Eventing Team

The Ireland Senior Eventing Team had a historic 2025 season, winning silver at the FEI European Eventing Championships at Blenheim Palace, their first medal at the Championships in 30 years. The team of Padraig McCarthy, Robbie Kearns, Aoife Clark, and Ian Cassells, riding Pomp N Circumstance, Chance Encounter, Full Monty De Lacense, and Millridge Atlantis, delivered a remarkable comeback after being seventh following the opening dressage phase.

An outstanding cross-country round on Saturday moved Ireland into second place heading into the final showjumping phase. Despite Clark’s elimination, the remaining three riders delivered under pressure, with McCarthy jumping clear and Cassells and Kearns each adding just one rail, securing the silver medal.

This achievement marked a major milestone in Irish eventing, surpassing the previous European Championship team medals, a bronze in 1995 and silver in 1991, and reaffirmed Ireland’s status among Europe’s elite eventing nations. The team’s performance showcased resilience, skill, and strategic excellence across all three disciplines and inspired the next generation of Irish eventers.

2025 Results:

  • Silver Medal at FEI European Eventing Championships
Rowing – Fintan McCarthy and Philip Doyle


Fintan McCarthy and Philip Doyle secured a bronze medal in the men’s double sculls at the 2025 World Rowing Championships in Shanghai. The Irish duo demonstrated exceptional teamwork and determination, maintaining a strong position throughout the race. Despite a late surge from Serbia, McCarthy and Doyle held their ground to finish third with a time of 6:15.13, behind Poland and Serbia.

This achievement is particularly notable as it was their first time competing together in this event. Their success underscores the strength and depth of Irish rowing, highlighting the potential for future accomplishments in international competitions.

2025 Results:

  • Bronze Medal at the World Rowing Championships
Basketball – 3×3 Senior Men’s Team

The Ireland men’s 3×3 basketball team had a landmark 2025 season, making history by qualifying for the FIBA 3×3 Europe Cup finals for the first time. The team of Jordan Blount, Sean Flood, Taiwo Badmus, and Matt Treacy, coached by Darren McGovern, won their two-day qualifying tournament in Kosovo, defeating the hosts 21-12 in the semi-finals and securing victory over Cyprus 21-19 in the final with a clutch two-point shot from Badmus.

At the Europe Cup finals in Copenhagen, the team competed against the 12 best squads in Europe, including the last two Olympic gold medallists, Latvia and the Netherlands. Ireland showed resilience and skill against these elite opponents, particularly with a strong defensive effort and balanced scoring, before exiting the tournament.

All four players are primarily 5×5 athletes who adapted impressively to the fast-paced 3×3 format, outperforming expectations against nations with dedicated 3×3 programmes. This historic qualification marks a major step forward for Irish 3×3 basketball, demonstrating the team’s potential on the European stage and highlighting the growing pathway for Irish athletes to reach Olympic-level competition in this emerging discipline.

2025 Results:

  • FIBA 3×3 Europe Cup Finals

Our Sponsors

Team Ireland logo

© 2025 Olympic Sports Awards of Ireland | Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy | Data Protection Policy | Website by FlyingFish.ie