Welcome to Gaelforce Great river swim
Here you'll find all the essential information you need to be fully prepared for the event. Please read everything carefully — these details will help ensure you have a safe, smooth, and enjoyable experience.
Full Schedule
12km Race schedule:
| WAVES | PARK BY | BUS TO START | START TIME |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 5:25am | 6:55am | 07:45am |
5.8km Race schedule:
| WAVES | PARK BY | BUS TO START | START TIME |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 8:40am | 9:40am | 10:30am |
| 2 | 8:55am | 9:55am | 10:45am |
800m Race schedule:
| WAVES | PARK BY |
START LINE BRIEFING |
START TIME |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 08:10am | 8:50am | 09:00am |
| 2 | 08:10am | 8:50am | 09:05am |
| 3 | 08:10am | 8:50am | 09:10am |
| 4 | 08:10am | 8:50am | 09:15am |
3.5km Race schedule:
| WAVES | PARK BY | BAG DROP | BUS TO START | START TIME |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 10:30am | 11:20am | 11:30am | 12:00pm |
| 2 | 10:45am | 11:35am | 11:45am | 12:15pm |
***Please note that times may be subject to change
12km Distance Specificities
Set yourself the ultimate challenge and swim this longest downstream route in Ireland. Please note this race is for experienced swimmers only. Due to the length and nature of the course, with many turns in the river, we cannot guarantee you will be in sight of a safety boat or kayaker at all times. Please keep this in mind when you decide to enter.
You’ll need to be over 18 years old and have completed a 3.9km swimming race within the last 12 months and provide proof of this in the form of an email to compete at this distance. Wetsuits are compulsory for this distance. Due to the length of the swim, the race director will make the final decision if you are allowed to compete in this distance.
Recommended Kit
- Wetsuit. You can swim without or with a wetsuit.
- Goggles.
- Warm clothes for afterwards.
- Flipflops or similar for walking to the start line.
- Water bottle for refilling at the finish line. No water bottles are available at this event.
Parking
- 12km, 5.8km & 3.5km competitors are parking at St Faithleach's GAA, Ballyleague. There is a €3.00 donation to the club. Please pay before arrival.
- 800m competitors only are parking near the finish line.
Facilities
- 12km, 5.8km & 3.5km competitors only
- Bus transfer to the start line from the parking area.
- Toilets are at the parking area and the finish line.
- Bag and key drop at St Faithleach's GAA clubhouse.
- Water refill station at St. Faithleach's GAA clubhouse and the finish line.
- 800m competitors only
- Bag and key drop at the finish line.
- Toilets at the finish line (remember to use toilets before you head to the start line).
- Water refill station at the finish line only.
Spectators
Spectators are very welcome! Please stay within the area of the finish line.
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