Irish Swimmer McCartney Wins European U23 200m Medley Gold in Slovakia

Ellie McCartney, a 20-year-old swimmer from Enniskillen, won gold in the women's 200m individual medley at the European Under-23 Championships in Slovakia, continuing Ireland's recent success in the event with back-to-back wins following Ellen Walshe's victory in 2023. After sitting third at the halfway mark, McCartney surged ahead during her favored breaststroke leg and maintained her lead to finish in 2:12.50, 1.22 seconds ahead of France's Bertille Cousson. This time not only smashed her personal best but also dipped below the qualification standard for the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, where she is already qualified for the 200m breaststroke. McCartney expressed surprise and excitement at her win, highlighting the strength of Irish swimming in this category at the U23 level. Additionally, Mona McSharry claimed a silver medal in the 100m breaststroke at the Sette Colli meet in Rome with a season-best time, underscoring the depth of Ireland's swimming talent. McCartney will continue competing at the championships, participating next in the 100m breaststroke heats.