Jack Kelly breaks Irish national record again to reach European 100m breaststroke final
Swimmer Jack Kelly has broken the Irish national record twice in one day to qualify for the 100m breaststroke final at the European Aquatics Championships. He is now considered a serious medal contender in his first senior international meet.
Why it matters
National record-breaking performances in international competition are significant milestones for athletes and their national sports programs.
Jack Kelly’s scintillating first day representing Ireland ended with two record-breaking swims to qualify for the 100m breaststroke final at the European Aquatics Championships in Paris.
Kelly will be a serious medal contender in his first senior international meet after finishing second in Monday evening’s first semi-final in 58.90, improving the Irish record of 59.27 he set in Monday morning’s heats.
The Yonkers-born swimmer, who qualifies for Ireland through his mother Claire, was second at the 50m-mark before powering into the lead in the closing stages only for reigning Olympic champion Nicolo Martinenghi of Italy to touch first in 58.67.
But the 23-year-old’s time was second-fastest overall, with Britain’s Adam Peaty winning the second semi-final in 58.94.
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