Challenging conditions for first open sea swim

THE SUN SHONE for Wicklow Swimming Club’s ‘Mid Summer’ first open of the season.

A record number of 292 swimmers competed in what was a tough race against the tide. 171 men took to the water first for what some thought would be a quick 1,500m swim around the bay. They quickly discovered the tides were against them, making it a challenging swim.

It was a close finish with not much between the top fifteen swimmers. Paul Fallon of Wexford Masters came home in first followed by Wicklow swimmer Dylan O’Donovan close behind in 2nd place, with Colm Walsh of Clontarf in 3rd place.

Boyd Freeman of Aer Lingus Masters was fourth with Brian McLoughlin coming home in 5th position. Gavin Curley of Sandycove was 6th place. Team winners were Half Moon while Brian Harris from Wicklow was fastest man.

The ladies were up next and conditions had not improved but that didn’t put them off. Charlotte Reid of Aer Lingus Masters took both first place and fastest time. Jennifer Murrin of Dublin SC was in second place and Robyn Brennan from Wicklow was in third place.

Anne Marie Feeney also from Dublin SC finished in fourth position while. Sarah O’Doherty of Glenalbyn Masters was in fifth place and Wendy Durkan of Tallaght Masters was in sixth position. The team prize was won by Dublin SC.