Sunset+Vine Producing Kara Hanlon Doc

Sunset+Vine has been commissioned by BBC ALBA to create a documentary on champion swimmer Kara Hanlon and her quest to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The 45-minute Kara Hanlon: Dare to Dream follows Hanlon as she trains and competes in the weeks leading up to the Olympic qualifiers, aiming to become the first-ever swimmer from the Western Isles to make it to an Olympic Games. The title is set to debut on BBC ALBA and iPlayer on July 24.

Grant Philips, executive producer for Sunset+Vine Scotland, commented: “Filming Kara for this documentary and following her journey through the Olympic Qualifiers was a privilege. Her story is inspiring, and the viewers will be completely drawn in by her determination and commitment. This program proves that with patience, passion and resolve, you can achieve great things. The documentary’s title, Kara Hanlon: Dare to Dream, opens our eyes to the challenge of elite sport. It’s a very well-told story.”

Jack Harrison, producer and director, added: “It has been an honor to create this film and travel with Kara on her journey from the Western Isles to London. This film will transport BBC ALBA viewers to the poolside giving a unique perspective into the world of elite swimming. Most importantly, it will inspire young swimmers across Scotland to take the next step in their own swimming stories.”

Fiona MacKenzie, BBC ALBA commissioning editor, said: “It is a fantastic opportunity to partner with Sunset+Vine to share the story of one of Scotland’s most decorated athletes. The documentary perfectly captures the highs and lows of Kara’s competitive swimming career as she candidly opens up about chasing her dreams. Viewers will also get an insight into Kara’s childhood growing up on the Isle of Lewis where she trained in a 12.5 meter pool. This documentary shows us just what it takes to become a professional athlete, and we cannot wait for our audience to find out more about Kara’s remarkable story.”