'We love you!' students from Kate O'Connor's former school steal hearts of nation on Late Late Show
The European heptathlon gold medallist Kate O’Connor from Dundalk brought her medal to the studio for a glamorous appearance on RTÉ’s flagship Late Late Show
Louth’s Kate O’Connor and Rhasidat Adeleke were in for a sweet surprise on Friday night’s Late Late Show when students from their former schools delivered heartfelt messages to the superstars.
The European heptathlon gold medallist, Kate, brought her medal to the studio for a glamorous appearance on RTÉ’s flagship show.
As they chatted with host Patrick Kielty, they watched prerecorded messages from students at their former schools.
The children told Rhasidat and Kate that they were role models who inspired them to pursue their own dreams.
One child from the CBS Primary School, Dundalk said to Kate: “We think you’re the best role model for girls in the CBS.”
Another added: “I love watching you on the TV doing the hurdles and the javelin… and maybe one day I can do it as well.”
And to end the piece, one student said: “We love you!”
WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW
The messages delighted the audience and the athletes. Both stars said hearing from the children helped them realise the impact they were having.
Kate said: “It’s insane, and I think as athletes sometimes you can be quite selfish and not realise the effect you can have on people, so seeing little kids who look up to you, it’s so nice.
You’re not just doing it for yourself, you’re doing it for so many other people as well.
“And it shows that you’re not just doing it for yourself, you’re doing it for so many other people as well.”
Rhasidat agreed, adding: “It makes you really emotional; it’s just so much bigger than me.
“And there are times as an athlete, like the injuries and the difficulties, and you’re constantly searching for your why, and that’s my why.”
Viewers also loved the interview. One person reacted to the Late Late Show’s video by saying: “Two amazing Queens at the peak of their careers and both incredible role models for Ireland.”
Another said: “Great girls, shining examples to youngsters.”
One said: “Two of the most inspirational role models in our society.”
“Two trailblazers, the ultimate role models,” added someone else, while a third said: “Absolute legends and role models. Keep the medals coming, ladies.”