This past weekend, hundreds of swimmers of varying skill levels gathered to take part in the thrilling Dunmore East RNLI Open Water Swim. The event, which is supported by EirGrid, the operator and developer of Ireland’s electricity grid, serves as a major annual fundraiser for the Dunmore East RNLI, a dedicated group of volunteers providing 24-hour search and rescue services along a large part of Ireland's southeast coast.
The event saw an impressive turnout, with over 360 swimmers and numerous spectators from all across the southeast and beyond. Not only did the occasion promote a sense of positivity and joy, but it also raised much-needed funds for the Dunmore East RNLI.
Expressing her delight at the event's success, Margaret Barry, Chairperson of Dunmore East RNLI Fundraising Branch, praised the unwavering support from participants, volunteers, sponsors, and the community. According to Barry, this support demonstrated the collective dedication to promoting water safety and supporting the invaluable work of the Dunmore East RNLI. She extended her heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved and expressed the intention to continue building upon this momentum in the future.
Graham Parker, EirGrid Public Engagement Team Lead with his medal following completion of the 1600m swim for the Dunmore East RNLI Open Water Swim 2024
The event catered to swimmers of all abilities, offering distances of 1,600m, 800m, and 500m, allowing individuals to test their skills in open water. In a statement, Sinead Dooley, Head of Public Engagement at EirGrid, expressed the organisation's pride in supporting the RNLI Dunmore East Open Water Swim and its crucial lifesaving initiatives. This marks the beginning of a multi-year partnership between EirGrid and Dunmore East RNLI.
Amidst the festivities, the event facilitated a reflection on the upcoming 200th anniversary of the RNLI in 2024. This significant milestone is a testament to the organization's unwavering dedication to saving lives at sea, funded entirely by voluntary public donations. The Dunmore East RNLI Open Water Swim stands as just one of many events to commemorate this historical achievement and to honor the vital lifesaving service it provides today.
