Paris – Daniel Wiffen made history by winning Ireland’s first-ever Olympic swimming gold in a thrilling 800 meters freestyle final. The 23-year-old world champion set a new Olympic record with a time of 7:38.19, becoming the first Irishman to win an Olympic swimming medal of any color.
Wiffen’s twin brother cheered from the crowd as he narrowly beat reigning Olympic champion Bobby Finke of the United States, who took silver, and Italy’s Gregorio Paltrinieri, who won bronze.
“Amazing… ‘What’s my name? Daniel Wiffen, Olympic champion,'” Wiffen told Ireland’s RTE television. “It’s really good. I can’t believe it.”
Wiffen’s victory also marked Northern Ireland’s first gold medal in 36 years. His triumph follows Michelle Smith’s three gold medals for Ireland in 1996.
Elijah Winnington led the race initially, with Wiffen moving into second place at 250 meters. By the halfway point, Wiffen was in the lead, with Finke second. Paltrinieri took the lead at 650 meters but Wiffen surged in the final 50 meters to clinch the win.
As the Irish national anthem played, Wiffen, with tears in his eyes, celebrated with the vocal Irish contingent at La Defense Arena. “I’ve never heard that national anthem at the Olympics before,” he said.
This gold adds to Ireland’s success in the pool, following Mona McSharry’s bronze in the women’s 100 breaststroke.
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris praised Wiffen on social media: “Yes Daniel Wiffin! Masterful. Gold for Ireland. Those last 100 meters were mind-blowing!! World-class. Olympic record. You’ve made us so proud!”