Daniel Wiffen Wins Ireland's First Olympic Gold Medal in 28 Years

The Northern Irish swimmer broke the Olympic record in the 1500-meter freestyle, becoming the first athlete from his country to win an Olympic gold medal in 36 years.

After winning two gold medals at the World Championships in Doha in February, Wiffen had every reason to be confident heading into the Olympics. But he said he had never stopped dreaming of winning his first Olympic gold medal.

Wiffen's victory was a major upset, as he was not considered one of the favorites in the race. But he swam a perfectly executed race, breaking the Olympic record and powering home over the closing 100 meters to win by a comfortable margin.

Wiffen's victory was a huge moment for Ireland, as it was the country's first Olympic gold medal in swimming since Michelle Smith won three golds at the 1996 Atlanta Games.

It was also a special moment for Wiffen, who said he had been dreaming about this day for his entire life.

"I'm just so happy to have won this gold medal for Ireland," Wiffen said. "It's a dream come true."