RIP Fred Parkes

Swim Ireland are saddened to hear of the passing of Past President Fred Parkes who passed away on 24 Feb 2015 at the age of 78 after a short illness.

A memorial service will take place on  Sunday 22nd March at Campbell College,Belfast commencing at 3pm. All are invited.

Fred was a top swimmer and water polo player and represented Ireland at both sports. It was while swimming he met his wife Elizabeth who was also an Irish international swimmer. Fred won 16 Irish Medals between 1953 and 1959 including 6 Gold (200m freestyle twice , 800m +1,500m freestyle and 4x200m relay twice). He won titles in Cork, Sligo , Blackrock and Pickie Pool in Bangor Co Down. He swam for Wellinton swimming club where the coach was Ernest ‘Square’ McCartney.

Fred in 1955 at Blackrock Baths after winning the Irish 1500m Title

In 1957 He  also captained Ireland at water polo.

Fred became involved in swimming administration  from 1959-2001 (42 years) including a term as Irish Swimming President in 1983. He was gala organiser and worked on several committees and was also a past President of Irish Schools Swimming.

Fred’s daughter Julie swam at the European Junior Championships in 1980, European Senior Championships in 1983 and at the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 1984. Julie credits her father with being the force behind her achievements.

Two photos are  attached the swimming one is at Blackrock in 1955 after winning the Irish 1,500m title.