Ireland's Shane Ryan has advanced to the semi-finals of the 100 metre backstroke in Rio.

He set a new Irish record along the way in his heat, finishing fourth.

And his time of 53.85 was enough to make it through as the 14th fastest in the opening round heats.

Ryan needed to make it into the Top 16 to reach one of the two semi-final heats.

The semi-final heats will take place later tonight. 

A new NR and our first ever #Olympics semi-finalist in backstroke. Well done @shaneryanpsu #TeamIreland pic.twitter.com/J0LPd0Qc14

— Team Ireland (@olympiccouncil) August 7, 2016