Hi,
Firstly, thank you for taking the time to click on my Pledge Sports funding page. I hope my short bio gives you an insight to what I do and most importantly what I want to achieve.
I am an Irish international Springboard diver based in Dublin and 2016 could be the year that I make my biggest dream a reality and become the first Irish Diver to compete at the Olympic games for 68 years. Originally I am from the UK, I was very lucky to grow up with a very supportive family who pushed their limits and resources so that I and my three siblings were able to pursue the activity’s that we loved to do. Growing up I always struggled at school and eventually I found something that allowed me to put the pressures of school to one side, that was the sport of diving.
I quickly grew up through the ranks of the British Program and at the age of 15, I became the youngest ever Men’s British Champion on the 1 meter springboard. From there I went I went on to win the title three more times as well as winning the GB title on the 3 meter Springboard. I was also lucky enough to become European Junior Champion and I rounded off my junior career at the age of 17 competing at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi.
Unfortunately 2012 was a heart-breaking year for me and everyone who had invested into my diving. I injured and missed a large part of the year. I recovered in time for the GB Olympic trials where I came 2nd. Despite there being two spaces, GB decided to select another diver. The heartbreak spurred me on and in 2014 I made another dream of mine a reality and that was to win an individual medal at the Commonwealth Games. After the games I made a life changing decision, and that was to follow my Irish heritage and represent Ireland. I am very proud to wear green, white and orange on my back. I would love for you to follow my journey to Ro and beyond and help inspire the next Irish generation.
Like many athletes, the burdens of trying to find sponsorship or funding yourself can be a great strain. Any donations go to help benefiting my diving progression and 2016 Olympic qualification.
Your support is always appreciated.
Ollie