On Sunday morning last, ten Galway-based open water swimmers departed Bunowen Pier in four local ribs. Destination, Slyne Head, an iconic Lighthouse located 10km offshore.
These swimmers were about to make their own piece of history in being the first men ever to attempt this mammoth challenge, while at the same time formally launching the Ballyconneely Charity Virtual 10km Swim, to be completed by any interested participants over the next six weeks.
The event was organised by Joe Kennelly, director of Galway-based Open Water Swimming company, High Tide Galway, in conjunction with the Ballyconneely Charity Swim Committee. Logistics on the day, including tides, times, currents and safety procedures were coordinated by local Aillebrack men, Pat Conneely and James O'Malley.
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'Tumultuous applause'
Four ribs departed Bunowen Pier at 11am, arriving at Slyne head some time later. The swim itself commenced at midday and Galway native, Peter Cunningham described the conditions as "simply incredible". Peter said that though initially daunted, he very quickly settled into a comfort zone, distracted from potential dangers by the sheer beauty of the surroundings, both above and below the water.
He said that Slyne Head itself is breathtaking on approach. The turbulence of the water provides energy and the blue shades both above and below are dreamlike. Three hours later, all 10 swimmers exited the water safely at Bunowen Beach to a tumultuous applause from those who had come along and witnessed history being made.
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The swimmers
Swimmers included Pascal Phelan, Mike Flannelly, Barry Doyle, Dara Foley, Joe Kennelly, Pete Cunningham, Fergal Madden, Shane Devoy, Stephen O Neill and Mick McCarthy.
Boat skipper James O'Malley spoke emotionally about what he had just witnessed and thanked the swimmers on behalf of the Ballyconneely Charity Fund for publicising their virtual Charity Swim. He also thanked JD Buckley of SKY, Ronan Traynor of Verve and Mick McCarthy of Galway Sup Board for sponsoring the swim. Later, Sarah O Malley urged everyone with a Connemara connection to participate in the Ballyconneely Virtual 10km Charity Swim and informed those in attendance that all details are on Facebook.
