Mark O’Donovan playing it cool on 2018 plans

World and European champion Mark O’Donovan is happy to keep everyone guessing his next move after a dream year in which he and Shane O’Driscoll won every piece of gold available.

However, their lightweight pair category isn’t an Olympic class and, with an eye towards Tokyo 2020, O’Donovan has said the pair will strongly consider a move to the heavyweight class as they return to full training this month. Another option would be to vie with the O’Donovan brothers, Gary and Paul, for a place in the lightweight double sculls.

“Next year? Well, we’ve a few options, but I’m holding my cards close to my chest for now until decisions are made and we’ll see what comes about,” said O’Donovan. “Things are getting there, but we’ll let ye guess around for another little while longer.”