Castletroy photographer wins British and Irish Underwater title

Mark O’Leary of Castletroy has been crowned the 2026 British and Irish Underwater Photography Champion.

The award, presented by the competition organisers, recognised O’Leary’s overall performance after he submitted a winning image of a curious dolphin.

O’Leary, a member of both the Kilkee Sub Aqua Club and the University of Limerick Sub Aqua Club, competed against 28 other photographers who together entered 78 pictures taken in Irish or British waters.

Entrants were required to capture, process and deliver their best images within a 24‑hour period, making the contest particularly demanding.

The champion’s dolphin photograph secured the top prize, earning O’Leary the overall title for the year.

Source: Limerick Post. Photo: Daniel Torobekov / Pexels.