Unexpected victory and chance to shine at Paris 2024
As O'Keeffe crossed the finish line at the end of her historic run, bleeding from what she admitted was a “little scrape” and celebrating her record-breaking feat, the emotions she had suppressed throughout the race quickly came to an end. It surfaced. .
“I was overwhelmed in the best way,” she said. “Honestly, it was an outcome I never dreamed of. So, yeah, that moment was filled with disbelief and joy and just a lot of gratitude.”
But as impressive as it was, this ordeal was just the beginning of O'Keeffe's Olympic journey. The next marathon race in Paris in 2024 is your chance to test yourself against some of the greatest runners on the planet.
“I’m really excited to experience that highest level,” she said. “And know that it really is the best in the world. And see where you can line up in that situation.”
And when the eyes of the world are on her as she attempts her second marathon on the stage of the greatest sport in history. O'Keefe hopes to inspire a new generation of young athletes who dare to think the impossible, even if it involves going where no one has gone before.
When asked what she would say to those looking at her accomplishments and wanting to follow in her footsteps, O'Keeffe advised, “Hold on to that dream.” “You never know what’s going to happen, but be patient and enjoy your sport, no matter what sport it is.
“There's a lot of time. When you're young, you should really have fun. That's the best way to make it last and give yourself a chance for long-term success.”
