Amy Marren made a big impact in her first race for Ireland at the World Para Swimming Allianz Championships in London. Amy joined compatriot, Ellen Keane in the heats for the 100m Backstroke S9 and it was Marren who touched home first to progress to the final of the event this evening. Ellen, who finished just 0:53 of a second behind Amy is also on standby for the final that is due to take place at 6:20pm.
Barry McClements was the first of the Irish team in the pool this morning as he set a new Personal Best in the 100m S9 backstroke after finishing with 1:07:07. Barry has missed some time this year with injury and will be pleased to come back with his best ever swim over the distance.
Ailbhe Kelly made her first appearance of the championships in the 100m Backstroke S8 heat. Ailbhe struggled to get back into the race after touching the lane divider and finished with a time of 1:28:46.
Sean O’Riordan returned to the pool after his first event yesterday. Sean again faced a world class field that included the likes of World Record holder Ihar Boki. Sean finished in ninth place overall with a time of 1:13:04.
Amy Marren will return to the pool at the London Aquatic Centre this evening at around 6:20pm and the final will be shown live on Channel 4.
World Para Swimming Allianz Championships- Day 2
Men’s 100m Backstroke S9
Barry McClements, 1:07:07, 5th
Women’s 100m Backstroke S9
Amy Marren, 1:16:28, 8th (Qualified for final)
Ellen Keane, 1:16:85, 9th (Standby for final)
Women’s 100m Backstroke S8
Ailbhe Kelly, 1:28:46, 7th
Men’s 100m Backstroke S13
Sean O’Riordan, 1:13:04, 9th
***
Post Race Interviews available here:
Barry McClements: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KksIfLvnEkM
Amy Marren and Ellen Keane: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buN-_YSZ1Gg
Ailbhe Kelly: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8L2yMO-3XNA
Sean O’Riordan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkXgmdPeei4