Five club members took part in the annual Rossnowlagh 5km sea swim on Saturday 24th July.
Conditions were perfect for swimming with virtually no wind and the smallest of swells giving flat, fast conditions. Unfortuately there were huge numbers of jelly fish along the way with everyone doing their best to avoid them but no one escaped banging into a few during the swim. The very good visibility (up to 20ft) made them easier to spot and avoid.
Scot Reid was first swimmer home followed by Shane O'Doherty in second. Matt McGarrigle, Rory O'Connor and Molua Donaghue followed closely behind, with the Sligo Tri Club swimmers all putting in an impressive showing in the field of approximately 40 swimmers.
The event was very well organised and raised funds to buy equipment for the Donegal Life Saving team. Everyone that took part enjoyed the race especially those who did this distance for the first time as the more experienced swimmers and locals were enthusiastic and helpful. Would be recommended for anyone interested in a longer swim next summer. The bundoran bay swim which is slightly shorter will be running in August details of which will be posted on the blog once available.
The course ran from Creevy's pier and passed a number of headlands in deep water and was a different experience to typical triathlon swimming. Finding your rhythm early was vital and perserverence important to help swim through the mindway slump that typically happens.
The race was perfect training and preparation for the Warrior of the Sea Swim from Rosses Point to Strandhill taking place in August.
