Izzy Clements leads the way to take first medal for Ireland at World Cup regatta in Seville

Izzy Clements took Ireland’s first World Cup regatta medal in Seville, claiming silver in the lightweight single sculls behind Mexico’s Kenia Lechuga Alanis. The 22-year-old, who joined the Ireland system via Edinburgh University Boat Club, steered a clever, tactical race to secure the nation’s inaugural international podium. She described the result as unbelievable and a dream, noting the Seville visit’s personal resonance and that the medal doubled as a birthday gift for her mother, Susan Brannigan. In addition to Clements’ success, Ireland’s women’s crews advanced to finals, with both doubles qualifying for the A final and Fiona Murtagh earning a final spot after a semi win by Lauren Henry. The Ireland women’s four also qualified for the final from their heat, while Fintan McCarthy moved to the heavyweight single, finishing fourth in his semi and missing the A final as Germany’s Ollie Zeidler won the race.