Daniel Wiffen has made history by winning Ireland’s first gold medal at the World Aquatics Championships, clinching victory in the 800m freestyle final in Doha today.
At 22 years old, Wiffen executed a masterful strategic race, seizing the lead in the second to last lap and finishing with a time of 7:40.94. “This is the one I wanted,” he expressed, having capitalized on the absence of the previous year’s medalists from the event in Japan, where he had finished fourth.
His victory in Doha marks a significant milestone, following his setting of a new world short course record at the European 800m title last December as a clear indication of his ascent in competitive swimming.
Wiffen is set to compete in the 1500m race later this week.
His Christmas gift to his parents which was a trip to Doha to see him compete was celebrated in grand style as they, along with other family members and supporters, rejoiced in his groundbreaking achievement.
