Daniel Wiffen earned his second medal at the Paris Olympics, finishing third in the 1500m freestyle final. The race was won by the USA’s Bobby Finke, who set a world record time of 14:30.67. Italy’s Gregorio Paltrinieri took silver with a time of 14:34.55, while Wiffen clocked in at 14:39.63.
Wiffen’s bronze adds to his gold medal from the 800m freestyle earlier in the week, making him the first athlete from Northern Ireland to win an Olympic gold medal in 36 years. He is also the first Team Ireland athlete to win more than one medal in the same Games in 28 years.
Reflecting on his performance, Wiffen said, “I had higher aspirations for the 1500m, but coming away with both gold and bronze is special.”
Despite starting the final in a strong position, Wiffen settled into third place early on and maintained his position throughout the race. Although he couldn’t catch Finke and Paltrinieri, he was pleased with his fourth-fastest time ever in the 1500m.
Next, Wiffen will compete in the Open Water 10km marathon swim in the River Seine on Friday. Despite limited open water training, he is aiming for a podium finish in his first open water race.
Wiffen’s achievements contribute to Ireland’s impressive medal haul in Paris, equaling their best-ever tally from London 2012.
