Commonwealth Games 2026: Barry McClement wins second NI medal with silver in S9 100m

Para-swimmer Barry McClements claimed Commonwealth Games silver in the men’s S9 100m backstroke at Tollcross Swimming Centre.

It is Northern Ireland’s second medal of the Games in Glasgow after Bethany Firth took bronze in the women’s S14 100m freestyle on Saturday.

McClements, who won bronze in the same event in Birmingham four years ago, edged out Australia’s Timothy Hodge by a touch, finishing in 1:03.68, 0.68 behind the Australian.

“It was just comfortable this morning, put a bit in the tank for this evening. I had a bit of a slip at the start this morning, so it didn’t quite go to plan so I knew I had a lot in the tank tonight and I think, I got everything perfect,” McClements told BBC Sport NI.

“It means a lot. We wouldn’t be able to represent Northern Ireland if we weren’t at the Commonwealth Games.

“So, again, putting our little country on the map, I think, is the biggest opportunity in swimming.”

The two-time Paralympian is one step higher on the podium than four years ago and is proud of what he has achieved.

“My career is just like a stepping stone. Last year was a little bit backwards, but sometimes you have to go backwards to move forward.

“But then again, as I said four years ago in Birmingham, I still feel like a normal lad from Newtownards, and I’m just chasing my dream.”