Derry man organises 'Open swims' of Lough Swilly in aid of RNLI

A Derry man has helped organise a series of ‘Open Water’ swims in aid of the Lough Swilly RNLI team.

The Crana Swim Series will feature three sets of swims in Lough Swilly, spread over three weekends next month, totaling seven kms.

The first  swim from Lisfannon to Ludden will take place at 6.30pm tomorrow, Friday, June 2.

The second swim from Ned's Point to Ludden will be held on Friday, June 9, at the same time.

The third and final swim will take place at 2pm at Ludden on Saturday, June 24.

Gerard Curran, a teacher at St Mary’s College in Derry and one of the organisers , explained how the series came about.

"I have been swimming in the Swilly waters now since 2009. It has been the base for many training days to prepare for swims further afield.

"The idea for the series came about when chatting to another Open Water swimmer in Sligo.

“He explained that at the start of each season they have a series of swims which take place around Rosses Point and that they have been a great success at creating more awareness of the potential of their local area, as numbers of participants and spectators have grown since it began over nine years ago.

"We have been delighted with the response from local and some not so local Open Water swimmers as the series has sold out in less than a week. And we now have a reserve list in place.

"We are also very grateful for all the sponsors who have come on board to support this and if possible anyone else out there who would like to get involved with sponsorship please contact us."

Gerard said the numbers taking part in Open Water swims was ‘growing consistently’.

He added: "Annual swims take place such as the Rathmullan to Buncrana crossing and others availing of these waters to prepare themselves for their own particular Open Water events around Ireland and even further afield.

"The area is flourishing and indeed is already a hotspot for Open Water swimming in this part of Donegal.

"Along with the help from local Councillor Nicholas Crossan we have decided to create a series of Swims throughout the month of June which will highlight not only Open Water swimming but also create even more awareness of the beauty of this area."

Gerard concluded: "The series will appeal to those who have a goal in mind for the up and coming season. As the series will provide the perfect opportunity to become 'race fit'."