John Shortt's rise continued last week as he delivered exceptional performances across all backstroke codes, securing a multiple medal haul at the World Aquatics Junior Swimming Championships in Otopeni, Romania.
The 18-year-old excelled at the competition, winning gold in the 100m Backstroke and bronze in the 50m Backstroke earlier in the week. He then dominated the 200m Backstroke Final from start to finish, winning by almost two seconds over his closest competitor in 1:56.19. Shortt's time in the 200m was a new Irish senior and junior record.
Speaking after his victory, Shortt said that he "couldn't be happier" to end his season with such a personal best. "Having my family, my coaches, my teammates here, it’s just been amazing, and I’ve loved every bit of it," he added.
The Roscam native sets high standards for himself, and those standards are echoed by his team. Shortt trains with Swim Ireland National Training Centre in Limerick, under the guidance of head coach John Szaranek.
"It’s not bad, but you know, as my amazing coach John would say ‘it can always be better’," said Shortt of his record breaking time in the 200m Backstroke final. "But I’m very glad to get away with the gold and a new senior record and junior record, I’m pretty proud of that."
His performances are bound to have turned heads on the global swimming stage.
The World and European Junior Championships are for swimmers aged 14-18 and last year Shortt also won the European Junior 200m backstroke title in Lithuania, and silver in 100m backstroke.
Shortt's achievements this calendar year are made more impressive considering he had the additional burden of Leaving Cert exams on his shoulders. Shortt will now move into the senior ranks for 2026 as he turns 19 next February. He has tasted senior action already this year when he qualified for the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, where he finished 15th overall in the 200m backstroke (1:57.30 ), and also helped Ireland to 14th in the 4×200m freestyle relay.
It's a long way away from Bluefin Swimming Club, but Shortt has not forgotten his roots. The club, along with Galway Corinthians Rugby Club, hosted a homecoming for their world champion on Monday evening. There was a great turnout, with bonfires, music, photographs and autographs. A glimpse at what is possible for the crop of rising stars at Bluefin.
Shortt's recent success on the world stage places him in good stead for the upcoming year. He will be determined to continue his progression with his sights firmly set on the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles no doubt.
