Swimmers to swim across Lough Mask

For the past 6 weeks a group of 15 or so swimmers from around South Mayo have been in serious training with the aim to be the first swimmers to swim the width of Lough Mask.

The 8 kilometres from Cushlough Bay Near Ballinrobe to Paddy’s bar Cappaduff Tourmakeady is the Goal.

This is a most unique challenge as the width of Lough Mask has not been swam before, swimmers will have to plot the route in advance by placing Buoys across the lake in a straight as line as possible while trying to avoid rocks and islands.

The official date is to be the weekend of the 29th or 30th of August depending on weather conditions, the 15 swimmers will embark at 3pm for

the 2.5hr – 3hr swim leaving from Cushlough Bay, 3 mile from Ballinrobe where the World Cup fishing competition is

based.

The swimmers will be supported by The Corrib/ Mask Life boats as the challenge proceeds will go towards the up keep of the life boat.

Each swimmer will be budded up with a kayaker to make the venture as safe as possible.

The unique scene of swimmers in wetsuits wading in from the lake towards Paddy’s bar Cappaduff Tourmakeady will definitely be one for the books and it is hoped a big crowd will be waiting to greet the swimmers.

The fact that this swim has never been done before, the aim is to highlight what can be done by using the NATURAL facilities around us (The Lakes ), the swimmers taking part are not dolphins they are normal recreational swimmers who have done some training to give this challenge a real go, groups meet every Wednesday evening from 7pm at Cahir pier and all are welcome, all that is needed is a proper swimming wet suit, goggles and a swim hat.

If anyone thinks they have what it takes to have a go just turn up for the Wednesday evening training sessions.

Tom Tracey Pharmacies are sponsoring special edition swim hats and the Mc William Hotel in Claremorris is sponsoring Polo Shirts to commemorate this epic challenge.