Annual Helvic swim in Waterford will mark 30th anniversary
The start of the swim always causes great excitement as pictured here at Ballinacourty. Pic: Noel Browne
RNLI Helvick lifeboat station is preparing to welcome swimmers, supporters and families to the 30th Annual RNLI Helvick Swim which will take place on Sunday, July 12.
One of the station’s best-known community fundraising events, the family-friendly fundraiser features 2km and 4km open water swim options in Dungarvan Bay, with participants finishing at Helvick Pier to a cheering crowd.
The event is designed as more than an outdoor challenge, with pier activities beginning from around 12pm, creating a full afternoon of entertainment for all ages. The swim route is also expected to provide a striking spectacle, as swimmers make their way along the marked course accompanied by a safety flotilla of kayakers, ribs and other support boats before arriving into Helvick Pier.
Instead of paying a sign-up fee, participants are asked to fundraise through sponsorship from family, friends and their wider network, with proceeds going directly toward RNLI operations.
The event supports the lifesaving work of RNLI Helvick lifeboat station and continues a long-running tradition of local community backing for the service.
A spokesperson for the organisers said visitors coming to Helvick Pier on the day can expect a lively, family-focused atmosphere with food, entertainment and fundraising activity throughout the afternoon.
Attractions promoted for the event include a burger cookout, raffle, stalls and souvenirs, and the annual King & Queen of Helvick welly-boot throwing competition.
Kevin O’Morchoe, Hon. RNLI Helvick Fundraising Committee Chairman, said: “The Helvick Swim has become a very special date in the local calendar because it brings together community spirit, personal challenge and vital support for our lifeboat station."
"Every swimmer, volunteer, sponsor and supporter plays a part in helping to fund the lifesaving service the RNLI provides," he said.
Sinead Dooley, Eirgrid Head of Public Engagement said: “EirGrid is proud to support community-focused RNLI events that bring people together while helping to fund essential lifesaving services. The Helvick Swim is a fantastic example of local people making a real difference through fundraising, participation and support.”
The RNLI Helvick Swim is a family-friendly community fundraiser, and organisers are encouraging people to take part in the swim, sponsor a participant, or just go along and enjoy the atmosphere on the pier.
For more information, event updates and participation details, visit rnlihelvickswim.ie.
