The OFI received a significant number of nominations for the 2025 Olympic Sport Awards from the public, Olympians, High Performance Directors and National Governing Bodies. The volume and calibre of submissions reflect an exceptionally strong year for Irish high-performance sport and the athletes, coaches and support staff who continue to deliver success on the world stage.
As the awards celebration approaches on Saturday, 6 December, Rowing Ireland is proud to have representation across several major shortlisted categories.
This year’s finalists include:
Female Athlete of the Year – Fiona Murtagh
Shortlisted after a standout season that included World Championship gold, two European and World Cup silvers, and exceptional leadership on and off the water.
Male Athlete of the Year – Fintan McCarthy
Fintan is shortlisted after an outstanding season marked by World Championship gold and bronze medals, consistent European and World Cup podium finishes and continued excellence across multiple partnerships.
Team of the Year – Fintan McCarthy and Philip Doyle
Fintan McCarthy and Philip Doyle are nominated for Team of the Year after winning bronze at the 2025 World Rowing Championships in their first season competing together.
High Performance Programme of the Year – Rowing Ireland
Rowing Ireland’s High Performance Programme is shortlisted after a landmark season marked by multiple World Championship titles, widespread podium success across senior and pathway crews, and continued progress driven by a strong performance culture and long-term vision.
Coach of the Year – Dominic Casey
Shortlisted for Coach of the Year following a season marked by multiple world titles, consistent podium performances and continued programme-wide excellence under his leadership.
Alongside these shortlisted honours, a number of rowing names received strong recognition through notable mentions during the nomination review process. These acknowledgements highlight remarkable achievements and emerging talent from a standout season.
Rising Star – Jack Rafferty
A breakthrough year marked by consistency, commitment and clear progress on the journey toward senior international performance.
Olympic Sporting Moment of the Year – Fiona Murtagh
Highlighted for her unforgettable World Championship victory, winning gold by just 0.03 seconds.
Team of the Year – Fintan McCarthy & Mags Cremen
Nominated for becoming the first Mixed Double Sculls World Champions and setting a new benchmark in rowing.
Coach of the Year – Clara O’Brien
Acknowledged for her role in developing athletes through the pathway and for continued excellence in coaching practice.
Community Impact of the Year – Get Going Get Rowing
Recognised for its national reach and its role in growing participation, accessibility and engagement in rowing across Ireland.
Creator of the Year – Rowing Ireland Media Team
Recognised for compelling digital storytelling and behind-the-scenes access at the World Rowing Championships, bringing audiences closer to the journey of our rowers.
These nominations reflect depth, ambition and dedication across the Rowing Ireland community. From world champions to rising stars, and from coaching excellence to impactful media work, this recognition demonstrates the collective strength behind recent international success.
We congratulate all those shortlisted and recognised, and we look forward to celebrating at the OFI Awards this Saturday.
