water polo dublin north dublin water polo

What is it with North Dublin and Majors? Today saw the 100th Liffey Swim and it saw North Dublin bring home the bacon for the 8th time this Summer. Our swimmers gathered early at the registration and there wasn't much hope amongst the ND population after the handicaps were announced. How wrong they were.

We know what you're thinking. Surely a speed demon like Brendan Cope or a canal basher like Stevie or Bernard would be the ones to do it. Wrong again. Step forward fifteen year old Mark 'Tadpole' Hanley. Mark has been affectionately nicknamed due to his small stature but ferocious pace in the water. Mark stated earlier this summer that the highlight of his first Liffey Swim last year was beating his coach, Stevie over the line. Well today he beat Stevie again, and everyone else.

Mark went off on 10 minutes so it was a savage swim from the young man. Mark is one of those kids who is at everything. Every session, every swim, every match. However, his sea swimming was stunted by the small matter of the Junior Cert this year as well as representing the U15 Irish team in the UK. As a result he needed one of North Dublin's wildcard entries. Mark effort and commitment meant that wildcard was always his.
Mark crossed the line just ahead of Billy Keogh of Sandycove to claim the win with his proud parents, Barry and Hillary, watching on. RTE were in the wings to interview the star of the moment. Then a kings chair from Karl and Bernard to carry him along the Quays for all to see. A true mark of what this Club is all about. Family. One wins, we all win.
Mark collected the trophy and graciously posed for photos with all of his adoring North Dublin team mates. The pick of the bunch was the one with the 4 previous ND winners still swimming (Bimbo, Frankie, Gerard and Paul Byrne).
What a sea swimming season so far. Eight wins, numerous team prizes and numerous placings. The banter hasn't been half bad either. What a club.

There will be some night had by all in North Dublin tonight. Mark is pulling a James Milner and lashing into the Ribenas as we speak.
Well done Mark you little legend and well done to all who competed today. Great swimming ☠☠☠☠