Mallow Masters and Mallow Swans/Lifeguards, took part in the 2012 Lee Swim, 2km Race last Saturday, 14th July. The Lee Swim is one of the top open water swimming events in Ireland and runs through the centre of the city. Because of this it’s an event that brings a lot of competitors and spectators every year to Cork. The start is across from the Mercy Hospital/Old Distillery, swimming downstream for 1,700 metres, turning the corner and swimming upstream on the other branch of the river for 300 metres by the Clarion Hotel. Originally held in 1914, the 2005 event drew 110 swimmers and crowds in excess of 5,000. Since then the event has attracted an average entry of 300 swimmers. This year there were 135 wetsuit and 136 non-wetsuit swimmers. Most compete for age group prizes (under 20, 20-24, 25-29….up to 80-84!), Mallow was well represented again this year and Mallow Masters came 3rd in the overall club competition.
Participants included Kenneth Rodgers (silver medal), Adrian Healy (silver), Arif Yilmaz (gold), Kieran Cremin, John Ferris (bronze), Martin Saunders, Barry Morrissey, Denis Merritt (bronze), Vincent harris (silver), Padraig O’Connor (bronze), Donal Fitzpatrick, Sandra Howard (silver), Patrick Bolster, Seán Callery, Maura O’Callaghan (bronze), John O’Callaghan, Grace Clifford (bronze), and Kieran Horgan. Well done to all!