The route

750m Distance

A one-way route from the start line in the fjord. You’ll be brought by boat to the start line, jump in and swim back to the Killary shore. A very achievable swim and the ideal length for first timers.

  • 30 lengths of a 25m pool.
  • Cut off time: You must finish in 40 minutes.

2km Distance

A one-way route from the start line in the fjord. You’ll be brought by boat to the start line, jump in and swim back to the Killary shore. A more challenging swim, perfect for those with a bit more experience.

  • 112 lengths of a 25m pool
  • Cut off time: You must finish in 1 hour 30 mins.

3.9km Distance

A looped route from the Killary shore and back again. Set yourself a real challenge and swim this full Ironman distance. Ideal for confident and experienced open water swimmers.

  • 208 lengths of a 25m pool.
  • Cut off time: You must reach 1.9km in 45 mins & finish in 1 hour 45mins.
  • We recommend a wetsuit for this distance.

Safety & entry requirements

The water temperature at this time of year is usually around 12-14°C. You’ll need some open water swimming experience to compete in all distances. Choose your distance carefully – you’ll need to have experience of swimming this distance in similar temperatures before you compete.

Tow-floats must be worn by all competitors. You can rent these when you enter or on the day at the information desk. 

Our team of expert kayakers and safety boats will be with you all the way and there will be a medical team on hand.

Part of the Great Swim Trilogy

This is the final event of the Gaelforce Great Swim Trilogy. Swim in the River Shannon, Lough Derg and Killary Fjord to complete the trilogy and collect your exclusive Gealforce Great Swim Trilogy branded towel robe!

We’ve designed the Great Swim Trilogy to follow the journey from lake to river to sea. With events in late spring, mid-summer and autumn, you can build your experience and distances as you go. The perfect challenge for your swimming year.
Gaelforce Great River Swim | Gaelforce Great Lake Swim

Route map

Details of the final route with relevant buoy colours, will be posted here and emailed to all registered competitors 2 weeks before event day.

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