New Documentary Film Celebrating Sonia O’Sullivan’s Legacy on International Women’s Day
In celebration of International Women’s Day on 8 March, we proudly present ‘Sonia’s Olympic Odyssey’, a new documentary film honouring the inspiring career and legacy of Sonia O’Sullivan, who won an Olympic silver medal in the 5000m at Sydney 2000. The film follows O’Sullivan’s journey from her first taste of athletics in Cobh through her career highs and lows and everything in between.
Throughout International Women’s Day we are encouraging athletes and sports groups to share memories of pioneers in their sport and stories of female role models using the hashtag #SheInspiresMe.
WATCH SONIA’S OLYMPIC ODYSSEY HERE
Joining a select group of athletes recognised by their first name, ‘Sonia’ represented Ireland at four Olympic Games—Barcelona 1992, Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000, and Athens 2004—before serving as Ireland’s Chef de Mission at London 2012. Her grit, determination, and ability to bring the Irish nation along with her on her journey cement her as a true role model and inspirational figure for athletes across generations.
Sonia’s first experience of running began in school and with Ballymore Athletics Club. Reflecting on her early days, she recalls the simple joy of sport and how it shaped her lifelong passion. With her home just around the corner from school, her first dip into the sport was transport and to get places faster running than walking. Over time this evolved to a more competitive and structured pattern when she was in school, and she recalls,
“I was getting all this daily mileage without even knowing it! When I’d go home at lunch time I’d put my shorts underneath my skirt, take off my school shirt and put a t-shirt on underneath my jumper, and running shoes. Then all you had to do is strip it off like superwoman!”
Resilience is a common trait among Olympic athletes, and throughout her illustrious career, Sonia has openly shared her triumphs, setbacks, and the invaluable lessons she has learned along the way—paving the path for future generations of Irish athletes. The nation held its breath during the Women’s 5000m final at the Sydney Olympics, a moment she vividly recalls in the film,
“To win an Olympic medal of any colour is what everybody dreams of… to go on the podium for any race is really special. Most races have fifteen people in them, and three of those fifteen will go out on the podium. To be able to do that in the Olympic Games, I’m forever grateful.”
At a time when the conversation around women’s sport and representation has never been more important, and as sportswomen across the country continue to push boundaries and pioneer change, ‘Sonia’s Olympic Odyssey’ acknowledges an incredible career that continues to inspire.
This documentary was produced by Dublin-based InForm Sport Media Productions, directed by Georgie Francis, and filmed in O’Sullivan’s hometown of Cobh, Co. Cork.