Ireland’s Ailbhe Kelly failed to qualify for the final of the S8 400m freestyle swimming in Rio, but had nothing but positives to take from her first event at the Games.
The Castleknock woman clocked 5.41.36 in Heat 2 to finish in seventh place - 13th overall out of the two heats.
And although she feels she could have clocked a quicker time, she was content that she gave everything she had.
“I really enjoyed training here, I really enjoyed racing and I can’t wait to continue over the next few days”
“I gave it everything I could and I can’t be disappointed with today so,” said Kelly afterwards.
“I was definitely hoping to go faster. But I feel that I couldn’t have done any better on the day, so I’m just happy I can say I gave it everything.
“I really enjoyed the atmosphere in there, it was really good. So I can go back and have a look at it and see what I need to do to make my next race better.”
The heat was won by record-holder Jessica Long of the USA in a time of 4:48.26, with Britain’s Stephanie Millward second and Amalie Vinter of Denmark third.
And while Long’s speed made the race tougher, the Dublin woman has nothing but admiration for the American.
Kelly continued: “She’s (Long) an amazing swimmer, I really admire her. It’s really intimidating.
“It’s great to be able to race against people that are that talented and to be able to chase after them.”
Referring once more to the atmosphere at Maria Lenk Aquatics Centre, Kelly said: “Hearing the big cheers before and even at the end... It’s really nice.
"You know you don’t always get that at Paralympic competition so it’s nice that so many people watching and cheering us on.”
Kelly is clearly impressed with the Olympic village and venues and is looking forward to her next events - the 100m freestyle and 100m backstroke.
She concluded: “I think it’s amazing. The village is so big, the food is amazing, the pools here are incredible – it’s such a shame, I don’t think they’re keeping them on here after the competition.
“I really enjoyed training here, I really enjoyed racing and I can’t wait to continue over the next few days.”
