Limerick’s Thomond Swim is set for a record entry this weekend as some of the country’s top open water swimmers take to the River Shannon on Saturday, September 1st for the 2012 event. This is the first year that the competition is also open to swimmers wearing wetsuits and a large contingent have taken up the challenge to compete in one of Limerick’s top annual sporting spectacles.
A call is now being made to members of the public to come out and support the swimmers who will take to the water at 7pm this Saturday.
“We’re delighted with the interest shown in this year’s event and we’re really encouraging everyone in Limerick to come out and support the swimmers on Saturday night,” said Thomond Swim PRO, John Garrett.
“The best viewing points for the public are on Sarsfield Bridge, Howley’s Quay and along the Riverside Boardwalks on Clancy’s Strand and O’Callaghan’s Strand.
We’re looking forward to a fantastic swim this year particularly as Limerick prepares to be Irish City of Culture 2014 and the event passes by many of the city’s historical buildings and landmarks, which add to the spectacle for both swimmers and onlookers.”
A strong contingent from Limerick Masters Swimming Club will take on one of the toughest challenges of their annual calendar and will be joined by other swimmers from Dublin, Cork and Galway. Local swimmer Chris Bryan, who was the first Irish open water swimmer to race in an open water swimming event for Ireland at a World Championships will also take part.
The 1.7km swim will start at St Michael’s Boat Club slipway, head up past the Curragower Falls to Thomond Bridge, pass by King John’s Castle and return to finish at Howley’s Quay.
Limerick Marine Sea and Rescue will patrol the Shannon and keep an eye on the competitors during the swim.
Some of the competitors in the Thomond Swim are very experienced open water swimmers having swam the English Channel.
Mayor of Limerick, Cllr Gerry McLoughlin said: “The Thomond Swim will offer swimmers and spectators a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the magical relationship between Limerick City and the majestic River Shannon flowing through it. The event is sure to provide a fun outing for all and shouldn’t be missed.”
The swim is expected to take around 40 minutes with prizes for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd home male and female swimmer and for the fastest male and female swimmer. With the new addition of wetsuit swimmers taking part, there will also be prizes for first home male and female in wetsuits. Monies raised from the Thomond Swim will be donated to Limerick Marine Search and Rescue.
