Paralympian Róisín cuts the ribbon on new-look pool in Bagenalstown

AN OLYMPIC effort to upgrade a much-loved community facility deserved a true Olympian to cut the ribbon on its exciting new era.

And that’s exactly what happened at Bagenalstown Swimming Club recently, as the club welcomed 2024 Paris Paralympics silver medallist and two-time European gold medallist Róisín Ní Ríain to officially open the new-look pool.

The 2024 RTÉ Young Sportsperson of the Year was delighted to do the honours and paid tribute to Bagenalstown Swimming Club on its fantastic new upgrade and the many club members who make the club the wonderful community facility it is.

Club chairman Mark Devine said the upgrade began as a vision back in 2023, when the club committee first applied for the grant.

“After a lot of anticipation, we were thrilled when it was approved in October 2024. Since then, the project has been ongoing, bringing us to this proud moment today,” he said.

“Like any major undertaking, there have been plenty of ups and downs along the way. We encountered challenges we never expected during the planning stages, but through perseverance, teamwork and community support, we got there in the end,” he said.

Mark outlined that the club has continued to grow and evolve over the years, always striving to improve facilities and equipment.

“These changes wouldn’t be possible without initiatives like the Sports Capital Grant Scheme. Thanks to its support, we were able to make these significant upgrades, and for that we are incredibly grateful,” he said.

Mark paid tribute to the many stalwarts the club has welcomed over its 78-year history, in particular Myan Gaynor.

“The dedication and countless hours Myan has contributed to this club over the years have been nothing short of inspiring and we all owe him a heartfelt thank you,” said Mark.

Mark also paid tribute to now-retired town engineer Jerry Crowley, cllr Andy Gladney and town engineer Lily Slye and her team.

Mark also welcomed minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere TD, Fr Declan Foley, PP, and local councillors Andy Gladney, Daniel Pender and Paul Doogue to the official reopening.

“We are very lucky to have a voluntary committee here that are willing to help when needed. I’d like to sincerely thank Brid Nolan for all the time and effort she’s put into the paperwork to get us to this point. A big thank you also to Trish Condon for handling all the contractor payments and keeping things moving,” he said.

Mary Foster of the Water Safety Ireland Carlow branch congratulated Bagenalstown Swimming Club on its refurbishment and wished the club well for the upcoming season.

The club has undergone an extensive upgrade in recent months, including replacing the floor of the learner pool with fiberglass, the laying of composite decking, a new granite resin floor that runs from the main pool entrance all the way to the learner pool, cladding to enhance hygiene throughout, a new vinyl floor fitted internally for added safety and durability.

Privacy and natural light were improved with the installation of glass blocks and privacy screens, while all toilets, sinks and showers were completely refitted. Both dressing rooms were upgraded with new seating, cubicles, lockers and semi-private shower cubicles.

The refurbishment was completed with a fully-fitted kitchen for staff and a brand-new reception desk.

The pool is open from 11am to 12.40pm, 2.15pm to 5pm, 6.15pm to 7.40pm and 7.40pm to 8.40pm (adults only), seven days a week. All are welcome.