
Rising Titans Make Waves: Young Swimmers Shatter Records in Stellar Year for Bray Club…Read More…
Bray, Ireland —
In what can only be described as a historic and transformative year for Bray’s local swimming scene, the young athletes of the Titans Swimming Club have etched their names into the record books, delivering a season packed with jaw-dropping performances, team triumphs, and personal bests. The club’s emerging stars, many still in their early teens, spearheaded what coaches and community members are calling the most successful year in the club’s history.
The Titans Swimming Club, based in Bray, County Wicklow, has long been known as a hub for nurturing swimming talent, but 2025 has taken their legacy to a new level. With over 30 club records broken, 15 medals secured at national competitions, and five swimmers now shortlisted for Ireland’s junior national team, the achievements have not only thrilled local supporters but also drawn the attention of elite-level coaches across the country.
Youth Takes Centre Stage
Leading the charge for the Titans were 14-year-old phenom Aoife Kavanagh and 13-year-old Liam O’Donnell. Kavanagh, already dubbed “the Bray Bullet” by local media, dominated the girls’ freestyle and butterfly events throughout the year. She broke club records in the 100m and 200m freestyle, as well as the 100m butterfly — setting personal bests at every major meet she attended.
“I just wanted to beat my times from last year,” Kavanagh said modestly. “But to set new club records and win gold at nationals was beyond anything I expected. I’m really grateful to my coaches and teammates — we push each other every day.”
Liam O’Donnell, described by his coach as “a natural competitor,” made headlines in April when he shattered the Irish U14 record in the 200m backstroke at the National Junior Championships in Limerick. The moment, which had spectators leaping to their feet, was later replayed on national sports coverage — a rare feat for a swimmer so young.
“Liam’s technique and discipline are exceptional,” said head coach Elaine Murphy. “But what sets him apart is his mental strength. He’s focused, fearless, and hungry to improve.”
A Season of Records and Rewards
Over the course of the season, 32 Titans swimmers achieved qualifying times for national events — a record number for the club. Several of those athletes placed in the top ten nationally, while five brought home medals, including two gold, four silver, and three bronze.
The club’s 4x100m freestyle relay teams, both male and female, also excelled. The boys’ team, anchored by O’Donnell, broke the club’s long-standing relay record during the Leinster Championships. The girls’ team, led by Kavanagh, narrowly missed the podium but clocked an impressive time that marked them as serious contenders for next season.
“Our swimmers are not just talented — they’re tenacious,” said assistant coach Peter Horgan. “They’ve turned early morning sessions, strict training regimes, and competitive pressure into motivation. That’s why they’re breaking records.”
Behind the Success
Club leadership attributes this stellar year to a combination of renewed coaching strategies, increased community support, and improved training infrastructure. In late 2023, the club secured a grant from Sport Ireland, which enabled upgrades to the Bray Leisure Centre’s pool facilities. The funds were used to install new starting blocks, improve lane markers, and purchase resistance training equipment.
Coach Murphy, who took the reins just three years ago, introduced a structured development programme that focuses on technique, endurance, and mental resilience. “We built this season brick by brick,” she said. “We tailored our approach to suit the needs of young swimmers without burning them out. Their success is a reflection of their hard work and the support around them.”
Community Pride
The Bray community has rallied behind the Titans, with parents, local businesses, and schools showing their support throughout the year. Fundraisers, carpooling efforts, and volunteer time have helped ensure the athletes had every opportunity to succeed.
“Seeing our kids perform at such a high level has been incredible,” said club chairperson Deirdre Collins. “They’re not just making us proud — they’re inspiring younger children in Bray to take up swimming and chase their own dreams.”
Eyes on the Future
With the club’s momentum showing no signs of slowing, the future appears bright. Several swimmers have already been invited to participate in Ireland’s Junior National Development Programme — a pathway that could eventually lead to international competition, including the European Junior Championships and even the Olympics.
Coach Murphy is careful not to put too much pressure on the athletes. “Right now, we’re focused on building skills and enjoying the journey. If the international stage comes calling, they’ll be ready — but first, they’re going to enjoy their victories.”
The Titans will take a brief break before returning to training for the upcoming Leinster Winter Championships. But one thing is clear: Bray’s swimming scene has been redefined, and it’s the young Titans who are leading the wave.
“We’re not done,” said Kavanagh with a grin. “This is just the beginning.”
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