Irish struggle on opening day

Swimming : Ireland's campaign at the European Swimming Championships in Budapest got off to a decidedly underwhelming start …

Swimming: Ireland's campaign at the European Swimming Championships in Budapest got off to a decidedly underwhelming start today as none of the swimmers were able to progress from their heats.

With early morning temperatures exceeding 30 degrees the Irish swimmers in action found it hard to get into top form.

Julie Douglas was the first in action in the 50 metres butterfly her time of 28.89 seconds,  a full second outside her personal best, was well off the pace.

It was a similar story for Andrew Bree in the 100 metres breaststroke although Barry Murphy was able to buck the trend, recording a personal best that was sadly outside the qualifying standard.

READ MORE

Melanie Nocher, in the 200 metres backstroke also came up short.

The championships continue tomorrow with Ciara Farrell, Clare Dawson  and Julie Douglas in action.