Róisín Ní Ríaín claimed her first medal at a major Para competition in the S13 100m Backstroke on Day 4 of the World Para Swimming Championships in Madeira, Portugal, which is the second medal of the week for Team Ireland.
Róisín finished in a time of 1:09.37 to secure third spot on the podium in tonight’ final. The 16-year-old put on an incredible performance to finish 4.52 seconds ahead of fourth place, and just 3.81 behind second.
In what was her fourth appearance of the week, in her debut at a major competition, Róisín showed she is not just here for the learning experience, as she came close to podium finishes in her two pervious races on Day 2 and 3 of the event.
Patrick Flanagan swam in the S6 400m Freestyle Heat, the NAC Dublin clubman clocked a time of 5:42.09, two seconds faster than his morning heat.
Speaking on his week at Europeans, Patrick said: “For the year that’s in it, it is all about learning, I took a few learning that I know I can implement. We have a competition lined up for the end of June, where I will hope to put in some good performances”.
Róisín will return to action on Day 5 to swim in the S13 50m Freestyle, she will be joined by Sean O’Riordan and Nicole Turner, who will both compete in the 50m Freestyle in their respected class.
Post-race interview with Róisín following her medal win.
Team Ireland Day 4 Results:
Men’s S6 400m Freestyle Final – Patrick Flanagan, 5:42.09
Women’s S13 100m Backstroke Final – Róisín Ní Ríaín, 1:09.37 (3rd)
Team Ireland Day 5 Schedule:
Women’s S13 50m Freestyle – Róisín Ní Ríaín
Men’s S13 50m Freestyle – Sean O’Riordan
Women’s 50m Freestyle – Nicole Turner
