Bryan seventh at world swimming games

Open water swimmer Chris Bryan finished seventh at the World University Games 10K swim in Kazan, Russia. The Shannon man swam the 10km course at Lake Middle Kaban in 1:57.2.

Bryan was with the leading pack throughout the race, leading at 5km and then again with 1,500m to go, but the 24-year-old was unable to keep with the finishing pack in what were very hot conditions. Matteo Fulan of Italy was the gold medal winner in 1:56.12.

Ireland’s swimmers have had an impressive games with top eight finishes from all three competitors.

Speaking after this morning’s race, Swim Ireland’s national performance director Peter Banks said, “We have had a very successful World University Games. With four top eight finishes plus five Irish records over the eight days of competition we can be very happy with the team performance. The quality of our athletes has shown and it is clear that we can compete with the best in the world.”

Bryan will now travel directly to Barcelona in preparation for the FINA 10k Open Water World Championships next Monday.