Ní Riain Leads Ten Strong Irish Team to Para Swimming Europeans

The squad combines proven international performers with emerging talent, with six swimmers set to make their senior championship debuts.

Ní Riain heads into the Championships as one of Ireland’s leading medal contenders, having enjoyed a remarkable campaign at the 2024 European Championships in Madeira where she secured six medals – two gold, two silver and two bronze. The Limerick swimmer will be aiming to defend her S13 100m Backstroke and SB13 100m Breaststroke European titles.

Fellow medallist Dearbhaile Brady will also be in action. The National Centre Dublin swimmer claimed bronze in Madeira before adding a silver and bronze medal at the 2025 World Championships.

Paris Paralympian and 2025 World Championships team member Deaten Registe has been selected, while experienced international Síomha Nic Brádaigh returns to the international stage. The Lisburn City swimmer has previously competed at Commonwealth Games and World Championships.

Six athletes will make their senior international championship debuts in Türkiye. Ellie Lynch, Elodie Betson, Luke O’Donoghue, Emersyn Scully, Luke Brennan and Dylan Prenderville step up to the senior ranks having gained valuable international experience through this season’s Para Swimming World Series. Maya Hogan had been selected to the team but has had to withdraw due to illness.

Two-time Paralympian Barry McClements has opted not to compete at the European Championships as he focused his summer programme on the Commonwealth Games, where he won a silver medal in the 100m Backstroke (S9).

Speaking on the team announcement, Swim Ireland National Performance Director Andy Reid said:

“This team reflects the continued growth and strength of Para Swimming in Ireland. We’re fortunate to have athletes with proven championship pedigree alongside a group of exciting young swimmers who have earned their opportunity to compete on the senior international stage. The World Para Swimming European Championships are an important benchmark on the road to Los Angeles 2028, and we’re looking forward to seeing this team continue to build on the momentum created over the last number of years.”

National Para Swimming Head Coach Hayley Burke added:

“We’ve selected a balanced team of experienced athletes and emerging talent who have demonstrated their commitment and progress throughout the season. For our debutants, this will be a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable championship experience and test themselves against Europe’s best. For our more established athletes, it’s another chance to compete for finals and medals on the international stage. The entire group has prepared exceptionally well, and we’re excited to see what they can achieve in Turkey.”