Kellie Harrington’s journey growing up in inner-city Dublin was no easy one. To overcome that and become the darling of the Tokyo Olympics is an amazing achievement. Kellie had an intense battle in her final against Brazil’s Beatriz Ferreira. Ferreira being the current world champion, Harrington knew this was not going to be easy.
Kellie fell behind in round one with the judges scoring the round 3-2. In fighting Irish spirit, Kellie came out calm and collected and then continued to get in her groove. Kellie came back amazingly to then defeat Ferreira in the later rounds. Kellie had become the lightweight (60 kg) gold medalist of Tokyo 2020.
A Different Kind of Homecoming
Kellie is expected to return home on Tuesday. Unlike previous gold medal returns, this time there can be no formal civic reception. Dublin City Council deems it too dangerous due to the Covid_19 pandemic. Her family and friends in Dublin’s North City have promised a special welcome home to the Olympics champion.
Kellie is a role model for any young sportsperson currently coming up through the ranks. A massive congratulations to Kellie, her family and her team from all at ITTN Ireland.
