Olympic heroes O'Donovan and McCarthy hint at plans for Los Angeles 2028 

MORE TO DO: Ireland's Paul O'Donovan and Fintan McCarthy celebrate during the press conference. Pic: Morgan Treacy

Back-to-back Olympic champions. That's the exact feat now-conquered by Skibbereen rowing club's Paul O'Donovan and Fintan McCarthy. 

But will the Paris Games be their last, given that coastal rowing will replace the lightweight double sculls come the Los Angeles hosting in four year’s time?

Former Olympian Tim Harnedy has championed O'Donovan's, as well as McCarthy's ability to make the step-up to heavyweight in four years time, and the pair have since hinted that they are not done with the five rings just yet. 

"It's definitely something that's on my mind at the moment so I must go home and write out a plan for the next four years and see how to fit that one in," O'Donovan told RTÉ.

With O'Donovan likely headed for the World Championships in Canada in a few weeks, weigh-ins will remain front and centre for the three-time Olympic medallist. 

For McCarthy, he has his eyes set - for the short-term - on some French delicacies. 

"We had our last weigh in ever this morning. Paul might have a few more coming up but I'm done. I'm done weighing in. So I'll get some nice food and beverages and see what happens," he said. 

Back to the present, and the team surrounding the duo. The Irish rowing contingent are a tight-knit group. They stick together and back each other whatever the outcome, that mentality has driven standards over they years, as McCarthy reflected. 

"It's a testament to us all down the rowing centre. It's such a great group to be a part of and we're all great friends. 

"Win or lose, we're all enjoying ourselves together and enjoying each other's successes. A few people were hoping for more, but I'm sure their time will come too."

On the omission of the lightweight grade from LA 2028, McCarthy added: It's sad to see the event go. It's provided such amazing races and obviously given us such success. But in terms of rowing, we'll try to be there and see what happens."