01-06-2025
Wexford swimmers continue fine form with high-energy performances at regional championships
On Friday evening, the weekend got off to a flying start with a strong performance by the Mixed Relay Team comprised of members Sean Moran, Loughlin Daniels, Katie Ryan, and Emersyn Scully, which set the tone for the days ahead. Sean Moran followed up with a determined swim in the 400m Individual Medley, showing early signs of what was to be a busy and successful weekend for him.
Saturday was action-packed and full of commitment from the team from early morning through to the evening. The morning event was opened with a burst of energy by Evan Bailey as he led the charge in the 200m Freestyle, alongside teammates John Shortt and Cormac Rynn.
The pace continued with Katie Ryan delivering a strong swim in the 400m Freestyle, while Ruby Bayley and Eva Mullins impressed in the 200m Backstroke. Ruby showed great resilience by turning around quickly to compete in the 100m Breaststroke, where she was joined by Emersyn Scully and Sean Moran, who added yet another event to his busy schedule.
Paula Gallardo powered through a great race in the 200m Individual Medley, followed by a fast finish to the morning with heat swims in the 200m Freestyle by Loughlin Daniels and Sean Moran, and a rapid 100m Freestyle effort from Paula Gallardo, Eva Mullins, Katie Ryan, and Emersyn Scully.
The Saturday finals proved that the members can remain calm and continue to perform to a high standard while under pressure. A number of swimmers advanced to the finals on Saturday evening, including: Sean Moran in the 100m Backstroke and 200m Freestyle; Emersyn Scully in the 100m Breaststroke, and Paula Gallardo in both the 200m IM and 100m Freestyle. Each delivered impressive performances, showcasing their composure and competitive edge, and the day ended with a spirited IM Relay featuring Paula Gallardo, Eva Mullins, Katie Ryan, and Emersyn Scully, which was an exciting race that displayed the girls' determination.
The third and final day of the championships brought even more cause for celebration with personal bests and final appearances. Loughlin Daniels opened the day with a solid swim in the 200m Backstroke, followed by Sean Moran, who also took on the 200m Butterfly. Sean's efforts were rewarded with a third-place finish in the 200m Backstroke final, which is an excellent achievement in a highly competitive field.
Paula Gallardo maintained her top form with competitive swims in both the 200m Breaststroke and 200m Freestyle. Eva Mullins, Katie Ryan, and Emersyn Scully also raced in both of those events, continuing to show great drive and improvement.
Both Paula and Sean once again advanced to finals, rounding off a fantastic weekend of racing for the club. The competition closed with a final team effort in the 400m Freestyle Relay, where the four girls delivered another strong, united performance.
