Swimmers return with swag of medals

A PAIR of Geelong’s top swimmers have returned from Thailand triumphant, bringing home a swag of medals between them.

Geelong Swimming Club members Ryan McGrane and Bradley Doolan donned the green and gold at last month’s Virtus World Swimming Championships, representing both Geelong and the nation on the world stage.

Held this year in Bangkok between August 20 and August 30, the Virtus World Swimming Championships is a major international event that brings together athletes with intellectual impairments from around the world to compete at the highest level.

McGrane continued his strong performance in the lead-up to the event, taking home silver medals in the 200m freestyle and 200m breaststroke events, and a bronze in 400m freestyle event.

He was also named team captain and led Australia’s elite team of 30 athletes as one of two flag bearers at the championship’s opening ceremony. His mother Helen described it as a “once-in-a-lifetime experience”.

For McGrane, who first represented Australia at the 2022 Virtus Oceania Asia Games in Brisbane, his selection was recognition of his “unwavering commitment” to the team, impressive performances and natural leadership.

“When he rang me, he could barely get the words out, he was that excited and proud of himself,” Helen shared.

Self-appointed team cheerleader Doolan, meanwhile, took responsibility for keeping the spirits of his teammates high, often leading morale boosting “Aussie, Aussie, Aussie” chants.

Doolan also earned himself a bronze medal in the 400m individual medley.

It’s the friendships, sportsmanship and camaraderie they shared with their teammates, however, that they’ll cherish most from their trip.

Now back on home soil, it’s almost straight back into training for the duo as they eye off the 2025 Australian Short Course Championships, to take place in October at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre.