Kellie Harrington’s incredible skill and dedication to boxing is now the stuff of legends, thanks to her histor- ic and groundbreaking second Olympic gold medal win at this year’s Paris Olympics, cementing her status as one of Ireland’s greatest athletes. Her successive Olympic victories, marked by tactical precision and resilience, have elevated her to iconic status in Irish sports. Born in Dublin’s inner city in 1989, Harrington began boxing as a teenager, finding both community and purpose in the ring. She rose through the ranks of amateur boxing, initially gaining international attention when she won a silver medal at the 2016 AIBA World Championships. Harrington’s career reached a new pinnacle at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where she claimed the gold medal in the women’s lightweight division, becoming only the second Irish female boxer, after Katie Taylor, to win Olympic gold. Beyond her achievements in the ring, Harrington is known for her humility and commitment to her community. She often speaks about the impor- tance of mental health, inclusivity and supporting local initiatives, inspiring many with her grounded approach to fame and success. Harrington’s journey from Dublin’s north inner city to the top of the boxing world serves as a powerful testament to her determination and strength, and an inspiration for generations to come as she steps out of the ring this year.
