Dublin 2018: Denise Grahl aims high

German hopes to win first European title in Irish capital city 12 Aug 2018 By IPC

Denise Grahl seeks to claim her first continental gold when she competes in the World Para Swimming Allianz European Championships in Dublin, Ireland, from 13-19 August. Germany’s Rio 2016 silver medallist will swim the women’s 50m butterfly S7, 100m backstroke S7, and 50m, 100m and 400m freestyle S7.

The 25-year-old has so far competed at two Europeans, winning five silvers and two bronze. But Grahl, who also works as a nursing assistant, is confident her gold medal-drought is coming to an end on Irish soil.

Swimmers to look out for on last day

Italy’s five-time world champion Carlotta Gilli will round off her performance in the women’s 50m freestyle S13.

“The European Championships are the most important competition of my season and I have been working towards being at my best for these Championships,” Gilli said.

“I am satisfied with my performances this season and my target for Dublin, like ever, is to just improve on my performances and do the best that I can.”

The women’s 50m freestyle S9 promises to be thrilling as well with Spain’s six-time world champion Sarai Gascon facing compatriot and Rio 2016 gold medallist Nuria Marques Soto.

Belarus’ 11-time Paralympic champion Ihar Boki will also finishing competing on 19 August as he dives into the pool for the men’s 50m freestyle S13.

Dublin 2018 is Ireland’s first major Para sport event and will gather 400 athletes from 37 countries who will compete at the 2,500-seater National Aquatics Centre.

Visit the Paralympics Ireland website to buy tickets for the World Para Swimming Allianz European Championships.