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IRE (2016) 54 MINS
In August 2016 Gary and Paul O’Donovan, two young rowers from West Cork, came from nowhere to become household names after bolting their way to silver medal success at the Rio Olympics.
Not only did they become the first ever Irish rowers to bring home Olympic medals but within a week Paul also went on to become the fastest singles lightweight rower on the planet by winning gold at the World Championships. With catch phrases like ‘Pull Like A Dog’ and ‘Shteak and Shpuds’ these two young men succeeded in warming the hearts of a nation.
This special one-hour documentary follows the O’Donovan brothers as they return to their parish of Aughadown and Skibbereen rowing club in the aftermath of their success. We spend time in their home, on the beautiful River Ilen and inside their small club, which has become the most successful club in Irish rowing history.
While getting to know Paul (22) and Gary (23) we get a glimpse inside this minority sport and an understanding as to what it takes to achieve such success on water. We also get to meet their wonder coach Dominic Casey as we figure out what’s in the water in Skibbereen. How has this small rural club achieve such success under his watch?
"Every decision we make in our lives will always come back to how it will influence and impact on our rowing" - Gary O’Donovan.
"One of the most revealing and insightful portraits of any athletes in years" – Evening Herald.
"Inspiring stuff. Packed with comedy moments while a fascinating look into how the O’Donovan Brothers deal with pain. An outstanding documentary" – Balls.ie
Producer/Director - Adrian McCarthy : Editor - Brenda Morrissey : Director of Photography - Barry Donnellan : Co-Producer - Rory Lorton : Executive Producer - Martha O'Neill : Executive Producer, RTE - Niamh O'Connor : Stills - Inpho/Sportsfile
A Wildfire Films Production for RTÉ.
Awards: IFTA 2018, Nominated, Best Sports Programme.
