Annual fundraising swim in Waterford creates wave of success
The annual RNLI Helvic swim was a great success this year. Pic: RNLI Helvic
An annual fundraising swim event in County Waterford proved to be a great success again this year receiving great support from participants and supporters - much to the delight of the organisers.
The RNLI Helvick’s annual Sponsored Swim took place on Saturday, July 12.
Attracting over 100 swimmers, the participants took to the water in bright, hot sunshine and in pleasantly warm sea conditions.
"A strong support team of over 25 kayakers and RIBs was on hand throughout, ensuring the swim ran safely and smoothly even with a few manageable waves," said a spokesperson for the RNLI organisers.
"The pier was packed with a large, cheerful crowd of family, friends and supporters who turned out to encourage the swimmers and enjoy the atmosphere," he added.
In addition to the fun taking place in the water the on-shore attractions also proved very popular and there was a very positive, family-orientated vibe to the entire event.
The RNLI spokesperson said the barbecue proved hugely popular, "with every burger sold out well before the end of the day".
"The event raised valuable funds for the RNLI’s lifesaving work while giving everyone a thoroughly enjoyable day by the sea," he said.
One of the Helvick crew said afterwards that it had been one of their best turnouts in years, thanks to the fantastic participation and the perfect summer weather.
For more information about RNLI Helvick or future events, visit rnlihelvickswim.com.
RNLI Helvick Head is a volunteer lifeboat station providing round-the-clock search and rescue services along the south-east coast of Ireland.
For over 110 years, the station at Helvick Head operated an all-weather lifeboat until it closed in 1969.
After a gap of 28 years, the station was re-opened and today operates a B class Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat.
