Sonia O’Sullivan Olympics Atlanta 1996 moments that shook Irish Sport

Sonia O’Sullivan is one of the greatest sporting figures Ireland has ever produced.

In a career which saw her competing at the highest international levels for over a decade, she turned in world-class times in events ranging from the 1,500 madras to the marathon, capped by World Championship gold in the 5,000 madras in 1995 and Olympic silver in the same event in 2000.

But her performances on the track are only part of the story of this passionate, sometimes fragile, and always compelling athlete. Now, Sonia tells the full story of her life for the first time – from her childhood in Cobh, Co. Cork, through her early successes on the track, to the highs of 1995 and 2000 and the low of the 1996 Olympics.

Whether in triumph or in tears, Sonia has always been a uniquely fascinating and mysterious figure.

This frank autobiography takes us behind the scenes of international athletics and behind the mask of a brilliant, vulnerable sportswoman.

Reviews

‘Few athletes experience such extremes of triumph and disaster! As a story of dedication and perseverance finally rewarded, it’s inspirational’ … Sunday Business Post

‘The candid nature of the book alone makes it a must-read for any Irish sports buff’ … Belfast Newsletter

‘A cocktail of thrills, spills, heartache, near-things, personal tumult, and devastation. This is a book written from the heart.’ … Irish Catholic