TOP hurdler Sarah Lavin has confirmed ambitions to compete at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, thus possibly becoming a rare three-time Olympian.
The 30-year-old Lavin, of Emerald Athletic Club, believes her best years are still ahead of her.
“I take huge heart that Derval (O’Rourke) won a major medal at 33. Okay, I’ve just turned 30. I also think given the fact that I didn’t have quite a straightforward career transitioning from a junior to senior, I get a lot of enjoyment out of simple things and if I had that perfect transition I might be slightly bored of it. I certainly am not. I relish every opportunity,” Lavin, a 2024 World Indoor finalist, told the Irish Independent.
While thankful for an annual financial contribution of €25,000 from Sport Ireland, Lavin said it wouldn’t be possible to continue as a full-time athlete but for additional earnings from commercial sponsorships, such as one she recently signed with Adidas.
Lavin was home to help launch the 2024 Volunteers in Sport Awards, a national celebration of the extraordinary individuals who contribute to the vibrant fabric of Irish sports.
These prestigious awards recognise the selfless volunteers who dedicate their time, skills, and passion to support sports clubs and community organisations across Ireland.
The awards are now open and the awards celebration will take place in Dublin in February 2025.
Awards Ambassador Lavin commented: “High performance sport in Ireland as well as grassroots relies so heavily on volunteers. We cannot take for granted the time and dedication of people who step up and volunteer on a weekly basis. They deserve to be celebrated for the positive change they bring to communities across Ireland. It’s truly an honour to support this celebration of the people who make sport possible for all of us at every level.”
