SKIBBERDEEN, Ireland–A credit union here drew a full house to watch the broadcast of the Olympic race in which two local brothers were competing. Skibberdeen Credit Union set up large TVs inside its offices so locals could watch brothers Gary and Paul O’Donovan compete in the lightweight men's double sculls.
The two brothers won a silver medal, becoming the first from Ireland to ever medal in rowing. They are also the first from Ireland to earn any medal at this year’s summer games.
The whole town, reported local media “ground to a standstill” for the broadcast of the race from Rio de Janeiro.
Skibberdeen Credit Union Manager Donal O'Driscoll organized the special Olympic viewing, which included an area for children from Lisheen national school, where Gary and Paul studied.
A samba band also led the cheering crowd outside the packed credit union premises.
Staff also wore T-shirts that read, "We're well used to a bit of wind."