Katie O’Brien
Katie is a World Champion and world record holder in the PR2 W1x, representing Ireland in both the PR2 W1x and PR2 Mix2x categories.
She won gold at the 2022 World Rowing Championships, setting a new world record in the PR2 W1x. Her first World Championship medal came in 2019 when she secured bronze at the World Rowing Championships in Linz.
In 2023, Katie and Steven McGowan placed 5th in the PR2 Mix2x at the World Championships, securing a place for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The duo also finished 5th at the 2023 European Championships.
At the 2024 Paris Paralympics, Katie raced in the PR2 Mixed 2x alongside Tiarnán O’Donnell. The double marked Ireland’s return to Paralympic rowing since London 2012.
Originally from Galway, Katie started rowing with Galway Rowing Club with the goal of reaching the Paralympics. She previously rowed for UCD Rowing Club while studying Veterinary Medicine.
Guilty pleasure
Netflix, Chocolate and Doritos
Most likely to say
How’s it going?