Saturday saw the return of the Sligo Channel Cup to Rosses Point after a 35 year absence. Conditions were challenging to say the least with 30 mph winds and a surging storm tide.
45 swimmers took part in a very competetive field including our own club members, Sligo Swim Club and Donegal Lifesaving Club.
We took off in 3ft messy waves from the Yacht Club slip way before turning left into the channel which was moving quickly. It was a real test of sighting, navigation and reading of currents. The finish line was in deep water opposite Harry's Bar where swimmers were taken on board waiting boats and returned to the yacht club.
One woman in particular met the challenge head on with our own Martha Van Der Mulen taking the ladies cup and fellow club member Shiela Ryan runner up.
In the mens, STC took 3 of the top four spots with Neil Walton taking second, Shane O'Doherty third and Matt McGarrigle fourth. Sligo Swim Club's Robert Smith took first place.
STC members Anthony Blake and Lynesy Dunne both received special prizes as the only swimmers to brave the elements without a wetsuit.
Overall it was an excellent performance by the club with many more members taking part and finishing strongly. The race was very different to what we were used to and is a great addition to the local events calendar. Martha is pictured with the cup along with race sponsor Brian Reily (Reily Motors).
