Ireland’s best short course swimmers meet at LeisurePlex

The top swimmers from across Ireland, including Olympians, Sycerika McMahon and Barry Murphy along with Lisburn’s very own Bethany Carson, competed in the three-day Championships, one of the top meets in the Irish swimming calendar.

Fifty-five teams representing all four provinces were in action with over 350 swimmers taking part during the Championships.

Ulster’s Sycerika McMahon, who won Swimmer of the Meet, won eight Irish titles and set a new Irish Senior record in the 200m-breast stroke final.

Records tumbled throughout the weekend, demonstrating the current strength of Irish Swimming.

Many local swimmers were also in action. Lisburn City Swimming Club had a ten strong team competing, a considerable achievement for such young swimmers competing in open competition. Performances were impressive with many making finals and swimming personal bests.

Speaking about the event Chairman of the Leisure Services Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett said that he was delighted that Lisburn had once again been able to host the Irish Short Course Swimming Championships.

He said, “These Championships showcased the very best in Irish Sport and was a masterclass in competition and dedication.

“These swimmers put in hours of training, both very early in the morning and in the evening and I’d like to congratulate everybody who took part.

“To qualify for these Championships is a major achievement and I look forward to hearing more about their successes in the future,” said Councillor Beckett.