Swimmers brave Corran narrows
More than 60 open water swimmers braved the cold water of Loch Linnhe as part of the Corran narrows swim on Saturday morning, October 20.
Organised by the Highland Open Water Swim group, there were 13 kayakers and two rigid inflatable boats keeping an eye on the swimmers.
Organiser Alex Reis said: ‘This is our third year crossing the Corran narrows. The swim seems to be growing in popularity.
‘Yesterday, we welcomed many new swimmers trying it for the first time, alongside some of our regular participants. We have already received requests to run it again next year.’
Alex’s 10-year old son Callum Reis-Forrester was among the field of swimmers, taking part in his first open water swim.
After being shuttled back on the Corran ferry, the swimmers rushed to Ballachulish for the first night swim near the Isles of Glencoe Hotel. Fifty swimmers took part in the 1km course, all wearing yellow glow sticks which made for interesting photos in the dark.
Alex added: ‘Everyone was excited after the swim and asked to repeat it again next year. Everything went smoothly thanks to our tireless team of kayakers and safety boats supporting the swimmers.
‘Highland Open Water Swim events are open to everyone, from beginners to experienced swimmers. Each person swims at their own pace and the events are not competitive. Everyone gets hot soup and coffee at the end to warm up. We could not have organised the swims without the support of many local businesses who offer parking spaces and other services.
‘The open water swim events have raised more than £5,000 this year for Children with Cancer UK through donations from our swimmers.’