Homecoming celebrations for Fintan McCarthy and Paul O’Donovan in Skibbereen

Gold medal wins in the rivers of Paris at the Olympics translated into home coming celebrations on the banks of Skibbereen on Sunday as rowers Paul O’Donovan and Fintan McCarthy finally got around to being feted in their native Cork.

The reception for the back to back Olympic gold medallists in the lightweight double sculls had to be delayed because of the World Rowing championships in Canada.

Paul, who is a qualified doctor, secured a third world singles sculls triumph on August 24th.The three time Olympic medallist came in two seconds ahead of his nearest rival.

Sunday in Skibbereen Paul was being his customary humble self claiming that “a bit of luck goes a long way.”

“A lot of things I’ve tried my hand at that I’ve failed at fairly miserably. I don't think there’s anything special really. It’s a lot of hard work and dedication and taking a bit of enjoyment in what you do, helps you put in the long hours.

“It’s not any magic that I have. I often feel that I’m just prepared to put in a lot of hours into some of the things.”

Paul thanked the people of Skibbereen for their immense support over the years and called on youngsters to follow their dreams.

“Have some big aspirations. Anything is possible.”

An equally modest Fintan said that he was afraid nobody would turn up given that some time has passed since their Olympic win. He spoke of his joy in being able to share the win with friends, family and the local community.

“To get home and see the joy that everyone has for us and who are just so happy to have us back, and see us doing our thing, it’s just really nice.

"We’ve been meeting people, and catching up and that’s the nice part. Sharing it with friends and family. They’ve probably had to take a bit of a back seat