Athlone swimming sensation heading to University

ATHLONE swimming sensation Robbie Powell has secured a place in Dublin City University next month to study Engineering.
He obtained 465 points in his Leaving Certificate at Coláiste Chiaráin in Summerhill and is hoping to pick up a sports scholarship in the Dublin university.
Robbie, from Crannaghmore, recently arrived home after representing Ireland in the European Championships in Glasgow.
He made his senior international debut in an individual event in Glasgow, the 100 metres freestyle. He finished third in his heat but it wasn't enough to qualify for the next stage, the semi-finals. He also competed in the 50 metres freestyle event against a competitive field and finished fourth in his heat.
He was on the Irish 4 x 100 metres freestyle relay team that broke the Irish senior record, at the same championships.
He told the Westmeath Independent he was thrilled with the Leaving Certificate results, after a busy year.
“I got what I needed so hopefully I will get a scholarship. I needed to go to DCU [for the swimming]. I am delighted. I'm really excited about it,” he said. He will be under the guidance of top coach Ben Higson and will be based at the National Aquatic Centre in Dublin. 
He had a busy year juggling the Leaving Certificate with swimming.
“It was really hard. I was up at 5am for swimming and then at 10 I was studying,” he said.