Chris O'Donnell and Mona McSharry for Olympics

“In this sport you always have a goal and once you achieve that goal, you go to the next one.” - Christopher O’Donnell, 2024, www.irishrunner.ie

Let’s get behind our North Sligo Olympians: Chris O’Donnell (Athletics), Mona McSharry (Swimming) - PARIS 2024

Join us in rallying behind our exceptional North Sligo Olympians, Christopher O’Donnell in Athletics and Mona McSharry in Swimming, as they gear up for the prestigious Paris 2024 Olympics! These remarkable individuals continue to shine a spotlight on our community and inspire generations with their unwavering dedication and talent.

Since the Tokyo Olympics, Christopher and Mona have gone from strength to strength and are a huge source of inspiration for our young people. They show us that anything is possible with the right mindset, and family and community support behind you.

As North Sligo prepares to transform into an Olympic Village adorned with signs celebrating Mona and Christopher, the anticipation and excitement are palpable. Their commitment to excellence serves as a beacon of inspiration for children and aspiring athletes, showcasing the power of perseverance and community support.

Let's come together as a community to champion Christopher and Mona in their pursuit of Olympic glory. Share this campaign with your friends and family, spread the word on social media, and help us empower our local Olympians to reach new heights at the Paris 2024 Olympics and beyond. Every donation counts, and together, we can make a difference in their Olympic adventure.

Christopher O’Donnell (26 years old) has been a member of our running club since he was in primary school and is five time Irish National 400m Champion. He is a vital member of the 4 x 400 mixed relay team who won gold in the recent European Championships in Rome.

Mona McSharry (23 years old) is the holder of multiple breaststroke national senior records (50m, 100m and 200m in long course, 50m and 100m in short course). In August 2017, she became Junior World Champion in the 100m breaststroke. In 2021, Mona became the first Sligo-born athlete to qualify for the Olympics (since John Dykes in 1924).

After many years characterised by perseverance and discipline, O’Donnell believes there is one invaluable lesson that any athlete can take from his story:

“Stick at it, because you don’t know when your time will come and don’t be too disheartened if you’re not winning races by a mile when you’re 12 years old. You don’t have to. It’s more for fun at that stage. Your time will come if you keep working.”

All funds raised (after fees) will be split 50/50 between the two athletes and forwarded directly to their bank accounts. This will help fund their Olympic adventure as well as future attempts at the Olympics, European, and World Championships. This money will be spent on travel, medical fees, scientific testing, track and gym membership fees, consultancy fees such as dietitian and physio, foreign travel and accommodation for competitions and warm weather training abroad, footwear, and clothing. Together, we can support our athletes to reach their full potential and achieve greatness on the world stage.