Big entry expected for Thomond Swim in Limerick

A LARGE entry is expected for the upcoming Thomond Swim, with this the first year that the competition is open to swimmers wearing wetsuits.

Some of Limerick’s top open water swimmers will be in action for the 1.7km swim, which takes place on Saturday, September 1.

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, while local swimmer Chris Bryan - who swam for Ireland at a World Championships - will also take part.

Members of the public are invited to support the swim, which starts at St Michael’s Boat Club slipway and takes in the Curragower Falls and Thomond Bridge before finishing at Howley’s Quay.

The event was revived in 2007 after a break of 21 years and PRO John Garrett said it is “one of our great annual sporting spectacles”.

“Building on the success of last year’s swim, the 2012 event will also be open to swimmers in wetsuits, something we believe will encourage more swimmers to take part,” he said.

“We are looking forward to a fantastic swim this year. The spectator numbers are increasing every year and this urban event affords the citizens of this city the chance to come out and support what is truly a special event,” he added.

Mayor of Limerick Cllr Gerry McLoughlin said the swim offered “swimmers and spectators a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the magical relationship between Limerick City and the majestic River Shannon flowing through it”.

Limerick Marine Search and Rescue will be on hand to patrol the river for the swim, which is expected to take about 40 minutes. Funds raised from the swim will go to the rescue service.

To enter the Thomond Swim, please visit www.limerickmasters.com or email Andrea Newport on andrea_newport@hotmail.com.