The weather may have been inclement with
heavy showers of rain and strong gusts of wind, but this did not deter the throngs
who arrived on Bunown Pier, Ballyconneely, to participate in the 3rd annual
Ballyconneely Charity Swim.
A carnival like atmosphere with an array
of flags, bunting, food stalls, music, required facilities and general colour
and excitement welcomed both participants and spectators.
This Open Water Swimming event was initiated some years ago by local residents, James O’Malley. Pat Conneely and Sarah O’Malley, while both Joe Kennelly (Galway) and Mary Murphy (Greystones) very gladly came on board to assist with the organising and to lend a hand of expertise and knowledge.
According to James, the initial concept of an Open Water Swim was to create an activity which would be inclusive of holiday makers, local people and those generally interested in sea swimming, thus enhancing the holiday atmosphere of West Connemara. However, Mary continues stating that it was vitally important to support communities who afford a very warm and generous welcome to holiday makers and tourists, particularly during the Summer months.
Subsequently, the committee then decided that any funds generated from the swim would be divided amongst local charities and organisations as a way of acknowledging the level of appreciation felt by all. This concept has gone from strength to strength over the past number of years with the profits generated ever increasing.
In addition, 176 swimmers participating this year, making it now one of the biggest Open Water Swimming events throughout the country. Speaking prior to the swim, Pat elaborated on the amount of preparation which goes into bringing such an event to fruition and he thanked the vast number of sponsors who have come on board. He stated that the main sponsor was SKY and paid tribute to Mr JD Buckley for his kindness. He also thanked the Kennelly family, the McDowell family and the Wall family for presenting the cups and medals. Finally, he stated that the event could not take place without the support of several volunteers and he thanked, in particular, Mr John Roberts who coordinated the safety on the day and both the Mullins and Teelin families who provided wonderful food, all made from local produce.
The day itself kicked off with a sandcastle competition and small race for younger children that was coordinated by local businessman Kevin Barry. Next up was the 500m Shore to Pier 500m dash with 87 swimmers participating.
The race was eventually won by Brian Desmond representing the Atlantic Masters Club, Galway while Georgia Clancy was the first female home. Finally, the excitement became palpable as 89 hardy souls lined up for the 2km swim. This proved to be a highly contested event with James Brennan from Claremorris SC taking the honours, while the first female home was Joanne Flanagan from Galway. Newly elected Cllr Gerry King was on hand to assist with the presentations while an additional presentation was made to Mr Peter Meagher from Dublin in recognition of his friendship and generosity to all members of the Ballyconneely community.
Finally, the committee announced that the charity swim had raised the grand total of €6,000.
The money was divided as follows.
Aillebrack National School, €2,500
Ballyconneely Community Development €1,300
Ballyconneely Community Playschool €1,300
Clifden Lifeboat €500
Ballyconneely Senior Citizens fund €400.
The committee thanked all who supported the event in so many ways and promised that the 2020 swim would offer something spectacular. In conclusion, Sarah urged all those present to view the Ballyconneely Charity Swim Facebook page and she thanked Ruth Wall in particular for posting a broad selection of wonderful photos and posting the full results of the day.
