O'Sullivan on mum's records: 'We are coming for the rest'

Sophie O Sullivan's performance at the Tokyo World Athletics Championships last year was unforgettable, especially considering her mother Sonia's initial doubts. Despite injuries and a bone stress injury, O Sullivan was expected to miss the semi-final, but she defied expectations by finishing in sixth place. This came after out-kicking a favorite, Sarah Healy, in 2023's European U23 Championships.

O Sullivan's trademark smile, even with possible grimaces, has become a familiar sight. At the national championships, she set a new record, a detail that now appears on her stats sheet alongside her mother's name. O Sullivan, still in her first year as a full-time athlete, credits her time at the University of Washington for her title wins, though her college career had its challenges.

She chose to end her stint there, valuing the support and connections she gained. The timing of her move felt right, and she appreciates the multiple 'teams' she's a part of. O Sullivan's injury issues persisted after her time in Washington, but she's now in good form. At just 2:01 in her 800m, she broke two minutes for the first time, becoming the third Irishwoman to do so.

Her goal for the upcoming Birmingham event is to make the final, and if she does, there's no telling how far she can go. O Sullivan is not to be underestimated.