08 Dec 2023
In an unprecedented show of strength and skill, Ulster athletes have made a splash at the European Short Course Championships, delivering Ireland’s most successful international performance to date.
Daniel Wiffen’s Record-Breaking Triumph
The standout performance came from Daniel Wiffen, who not only shattered a world record but also collected multiple medals. His breathtaking 800m Freestyle swim stopped the clock at a World Record time of 7.20.46, securing him a well-deserved gold medal. Wiffen had previously won in a 14.09.11 finish in the 1500m and a 3.35.47 in the 400m Freestyle, marking this as the most triumphant performance by an Irish swimmer at an international meet and Ireland’s First World Record.
Nathan Wiffen’s Impressive Finals Performance
Nathan Wiffen proved his mettle by reaching the finals in both the 1500m (14.38.75) and 800m (7.34.78) events. He also showcased his growing prowess in the 400m Freestyle, setting a new personal best of 3.43.69.
Danielle Hill’s Record-Breaking Swims
Danielle Hill made waves by setting new Irish records in her events. She finished 4th in the 50m Backstroke with a time of 26.33 and 5th in the 100m Backstroke, clocking in at 57.59. Hill also advanced to the semi-finals of the 50m Freestyle, setting another Irish record with a time of 24.16.
Ellie McCartney’s Ulster Record
Ellie McCartney’s performance in the 200IM was nothing short of remarkable, posting a time of 2.11.74 in the semi-finals, a new Ulster record. She also achieved a personal best in the 100m Breaststroke with a time of 1.07.50.
Victoria Catterson’s Strong Showing
Victoria Catterson made a strong impression with her performance in the 100m freestyle, clocking 54.23, and in the 200m Freestyle semi-finals, where she placed 12th with a time of 1.55.94, breaking the Irish Record she set in the preliminary round.
Grace Davison’s Junior Record
Grace Davison set a new Irish Junior Record in the 50m freestyle with a time of 25.64 and posted a personal best in the 200m Freestyle with a time of 1.59.74.
Dylan Registe’s Personal Bests
Dylan Registe showed his growing prowess by setting personal bests in multiple events: 50m Freestyle (22.50), 50m Butterfly (24.23), and 100m Butterfly (54.37).
A Bright Future for Swim Ulster
This remarkable achievement at the European Short Course Championships not only highlights the talent within Swim Ulster but also signals a bright future for Irish swimming on the international stage. The dedication, hard work, and sheer talent of these athletes have brought pride and honor to both Swim Ulster and Ireland as a whole.