Athlone swimmers excel at Irish Open as new records set
The recent Irish Open Swimming Championships proved to be an exhilarating five-day event, showcasing exceptional talent and determination. Hosted in the National Aquatic Centre, the competition featured Athlone Swimming Club, which made a significant impact on the national stage.
Among the standout performances were three elite swimmers from the club: Christian O’Brien, Leah Connell, and Jane Ryan. Day 1 saw Leah Connell shine brightly as she set a new club record in the 100m backstroke, earning her a well-deserved silver medal. Her performance not only highlighted her individual talent but also set the tone for the rest of the event.
As the championships progressed, Leah continued to excel, culminating in a record-breaking finish on Day 5, where she set a new club record in the 50m backstroke.
Christian O’Brien showcased his remarkable skills in the 50m breaststroke, where he not only clinched the senior silver medal but also set a new club record and a new Connacht record, an outstanding accomplishment at this level.
His exceptional performance in the 100m breaststroke earned him a silver medal, a personal best and another club record just 0.1 seconds shy of the European qualification standard. Christian’s achievements are extraordinary and reflect his commitment to excellence as a member of the club but also part of the Irish National Swim Ireland programme.
Jane Ryan also made her mark by reaching the finals and achieving impressive personal bests throughout the competition. The Ballymore girl’s hard work and dedication were evident as she pushed herself against some of the best swimmers in the country reaching A finals.
These three talented athletes are not only breaking records but also serving as an inspiration to younger swimmers. They exemplify the values of hard work and perseverance, dedicating time to assist and mentor the next generation of swimmers within the club.
Athlone Swimming Club’s success at the Irish Open is a testament to the ongoing commitment from head coach Denise Dolan and the hard working committee, coaches, parents and volunteers who are committed to excellence in the sport.
“We look forward to seeing what the future holds for Leah, Christian, and Jane as they continue to reach new heights in their swimming careers. Congratulations to all involved for an outstanding event that has brought pride to our club,” said Athlone Swimming Club.