The 2024 Irish Youth and Senior Summer National Championships took place at the Sport Ireland National Aquatic Centre in Dublin from July 22-27.
The event drew 1,125 swimmers from over 120 clubs, ranging from local Irish clubs to international participants from as far as Dubai.
Among the competitors, the Enniskillen Lakelanders were particularly notable, bringing home an impressive haul of medals, certificates, and personal bests (PBs) under the guidance of Head Coach Ben Wiffen.
Kiril Chursin (18) had a standout performance, marking his third appearance at the Nationals. Kiril showcased his skill in the 100m Breaststroke, achieving a 15th place finish among his peers and improving his PB by 1.91 seconds. This remarkable feat earned him a special Swim Ireland Certificate. He further excelled in the 50m Freestyle, clocking a new PB of 26.68.
Ellie Dunlop (15), an Ulster Squad swimmer, had a remarkable week, qualifying for four events. Ellie secured a silver medal and a new PB in the 100m Breaststroke. She narrowly missed the podium in the 200m Breaststroke, finishing fifth with a significant PB improvement of 1.85 seconds. Ellie also delivered strong performances in the 200m Individual Medley and the open 50m Breaststroke, competing valiantly against older swimmers in the final event.
Hannah Lynch (15), another Ulster Squad talent, earned bronze medals in the gruelling 800m and 1500m Freestyle races. Hannah's 1500m performance was particularly impressive, as she shaved off a whopping 16 seconds from her PB, finishing in 18:53.16. She also claimed 4th place in the 200m Backstroke, 7th in the 400m Freestyle, and 17th in the 200m Freestyle. Her efforts earned her multiple Swim Ireland awards and Ulster Squad qualification times.
Kate McDade (15), competing in the competitive 16-17 age category, excelled in her third Nationals appearance. Kate finished 3rd in the 200m Breaststroke heats and narrowly missed the podium in the final, earning a new PB and a special Swim Ireland award for highest improvement points. She also achieved PBs and high placements in the 100m Breaststroke, 200m Individual Medley, and 400m Freestyle.
James Mongan (17) competed in his second Nationals, showcasing a strong performance in the 200m Backstroke and finishing in the top 25 of his age group.
Head Coach Ben Wiffen praised the team's efforts, stating: "Irish Nationals are always a highly competitive and tense event. It showcases the swimmers’ hard work throughout the year, and I was extremely pleased with every swimmer’s individual performances. Multiple medals, certificates, and PBs make it all worthwhile."
Club Chairperson Aideen Speer commended the swimmers' dedication and highlighted the crucial support from club sponsors Lough Erne Resort and Western Cars. She also expressed gratitude towards Head Coach Ben Wiffen for his unwavering commitment.
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