Swimming sensations Ellen Keane and Nicole Turner continued their successful Games, both reaching the final of their respective events yesterday.

When it was over, Pat O’Leary strapped back on his left leg and walked off down the pontoon in Rio de Janeiro’s spectacular Lagoa Stadium to find his family.

Poor crowds were once again the main talking point at the Rio Olympics on Friday, even as the athletics got under way.

From Rio, Ewan MacKenna writes about Ireland's best hopes at an Olympic gold medal, highlight both of our rowing teams and their growing success.