McSharry caps off memorable week with bronze medal

Mona McSharry concluded an impressive week at the European Aquatics Championships in Paris by claiming a bronze medal in the 50m breaststroke final. The Irish swimmer, a 2024 Olympic medallist, secured the bronze in a time of 29.95 seconds, setting a new national record. Her victory came after already securing a silver in the 100m breaststroke and a bronze in the 200m breaststroke earlier in the week.

Competing in Paris, McSharry was in superb form and achieved her goal of winning a medal. Lithuania's Ruta Meilutyte won gold in 29.93 seconds, with Italy's Benedetta Pilato taking silver in 29.94 seconds. McSharry expressed her delight, stating, "That was amazing, the goal going in was a 29, a medal would be great. The fact that I was able to get both, that first 25 just clicked.

So I'm happy." Despite her success, Ellen Walshe was unable to secure the bronze in the 200m butterfly final, finishing just behind her in a time of 2:07.40. Tom Fannon also competed in the event, finishing sixth with a time of 21.59 seconds.