Editorial: Well Done Sonia

For those of us who died a thousand deaths with Sonia O’Sullivan on that sultry Atlanta track two years ago, the past week’s events in Budapest have brought a considerable measure of relief and redemption. The Cork athlete emerged from the Atlanta Olympics seemingly shattered in body, heart and mind. She failed to revive her fortunes last year at the World Championships. Many were ready to write her off. Another brave Irish athlete who couldn’t quite come up with the goods when it really mattered. Sonia’s reply came at the just concluded European Championships. And what a reply. O’Sullivan ran away with the 5,000 and 10,000 meter titles. And all this following her double win at the World Cross-country Championships in March. O’Sullivan’s career, despite Atlanta, now boasts more highs than lows. She won the World 5000 meter title in 1995 and was the reigning European 3,000 champion going into the Budapest meet. She now holds three European and three World titles. She could retire today and be an entirely legitimate Irish sporting legend. She won’t. Sydney 2000 now beckons. With luck, she will leave even the Kangaroos in her majestic wake. Well done Sonia!