Among the lineup is Mark Ryan – a 23-year-old swimmer from Nenagh
The University of Limerick Swim Club are making a historic weekend as 15 of its athletes will take to the water in their first-ever Swim Ireland gala.
The Munster Short-Course Regional Championship takes place annually at UL Sports Arena. The Level Three Swim Ireland Gala which started today, will take place over the weekend ending November 17.
Among the lineup is Mark Ryan, a 23-year-old swimmer from Nenagh, Tipperary, who has been a member of the UL Swim Club for over three years. Mark began his journey in competitive swimming at just seven years old with the Nenagh Neptune Swimming Club.
The final year Economics and Finance student reflected on the significance of the upcoming gala.
“For the club, it’s very exciting to compete under Swim Ireland for the first time. It’s a big step toward growing the club and building a stronger sense of community among the swimmers,” Mark shared.
Mark also mentioned his personal goals for the upcoming swim year saying “my goal is to execute my races to the best of my ability, avoid silly mistakes, and, most importantly, have fun.”
Mark also talked about the future of the swim club, now affiliated with Swim Ireland. “Our training this semester includes an extra gym session, all aimed at preparing us for varsities in February and qualifying for Summer Nationals. The focus is on continuous growth individually and as a club.”
The gala represents the beginning of the short-course season in Munster, which runs from September to December featuring 25-meter pool events. Swimmers will compete across various strokes and distances, from 50m sprints to 1500m freestyle races.
The Munster short course is the last opportunity for swimmers to qualify for Winter nationals, held in Dublin annually.
All visitors are welcome to the gala in the UL Sport Arena throughout the weekend.