Brendan Hyland

Swim Ireland and the Olympic Federation of Ireland have announced a nine-strong swimming team that will represent Ireland at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games this summer, the culmination of the significant efforts that many Irish athletes and coaches have made across the course of the qualification period.

Brendan Hyland, is Ireland’s only athlete to receive a FINA ‘B’ invitation to attend the Olympic Games in the 200m Butterfly. “Hyland’s invite was ultimately crucial to Ireland least two athletes qualified in individual events to feature within it and with the programming of the Men’s 200m Breaststroke and Men’s 800m Freestyle events immediately before and after this relay event, made this selection a particular challenge”, Jon Rudd, National Performance director.

Brendan commented “It’s been absolutely mental, but look, the stars have finally aligned, It’s sad that Jordan and Gerry have missed out, You only get an invite as an individual if you’re really close to the A standard and it was that 200m Butterfly I did in the World Championship in Budapest in 2019 that turned out to my dream become a reality. It has been a rollercoaster ride. I’ve literally dreamt about this since I was eight years old and it all came together nearly 20 years leter, when I am now living the Olympic dream.”

As Paraic Kelly, Head Coach of Tallaght Swim Team recalls a young 12 year old Brendan asking him at training camp in Spain “What do I need to do to get to the Olympics?
Brendan was always very focused and put 100% into every training session, we are proud of him here at Tallaght Sports Complex and Tallaght Swim Team.

Tallaght Swim Team are aware not all athletes made the selection and to you we say you are an inspiration to all young swimmers across the country, you have inspired a new generation and we thank you and wish you continued success in your swimming career.

Congratulations to Brendan, His family and everyone that has been on this journey with him