Swim Ulster to host first winter swim in Moneymore

Swim Ulster is working in partnership with Splash, based in Moneymore, to stage its inaugural winter swim event on February 18.

“Winter swimming, dipping or dunking is very popular and Swim Ulster is keen to engage with the open water swimming community by offering this event and experience,” said a Swim Ulster spokesperson.

People will have the opportunity to meet other swimmers and enjoy the cold water of an old quarry that naturally became a lough over the years.

“It is hoped that the purpose of this event will be to connect with others, and to enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of cold water swimming in a safe and beautiful setting.”

For the event, completing a set distance and a timed swim is not a requirement and people will have the option to complete a short 250m swim course if they wish to.

“The event offers the open water swimming community the opportunity to connect and enjoy the experience and if they want to swim a set distance then there is a 250m swim course set out, but this is purely optional.”

People wishing to attend will need to register online and pay £15. Participants will receive a free Swim Ulster swim cap and will have access to the wood-fired saunas and cafe. Participants will have to bring their own tow floats as it is mandatory.

“Participants do require to pre-register for this event and for health and safety reasons no one who turns up on the day to take part without having pre-registering first will be permitted to take part. The event will commence at 12noon and should be concluded by 3pm,” added a spokesperson of Swim Ulster.

People over 18 years of age have to put their name down before February 15 via the link.