Courtesy of Ned Denison, International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame.
Cork is known for the Fastnet Rock Swim, Cork Distance Week, the first Oceans Seven swimmer (Stephen Redmond), over 200 local marathoners, and nearly 300 English Channel solers recorded on “The Towel” who also lapped Sandycove Island.
The Cork Marathon Machine is priming its future English Channel pipeline.
In the late spring, the idea was announced: a 12.7 km Kilmacsimon-to-Dock Marina swim for locals with 5 to 8 km personal longest swims. The idea is now a plan: 15 swimmers each with a dedicated kayaker, safety boats, and rewards at the end. The swim is a proven favorite for aspiring marathoners:
- Down river – assisted by an outgoing tide
- Never more than 200 meters from a shore so visually comforting
- Warmer than the sea – probably 16C
- Fairly shallow – for any swimmers intimidated by deep water
- A group buzz and encouragement by local mentors and heroes
- The rewards are tangible and desirable for the swimmers:
- Group hugs and high fives
- Group picture
- Media coverage on WhatsApp groups, Facebook and the local newspaper
- A 10 km+ Cork Marathon Cap
- A Cork Marathon Swimmer car decalMention at the weekly Friday am “after swim celebration” and receipt of an aubergine (none of the local understand the 2026 award – so you aren’t alone).
- Invitations to future local and international cool marathons
- Inclusion on the Cork Long Distance List
- Long Swims – County Cork plus some of Kerry Coastline – Google Docs
If you were a betting person – you’d bet that at least one of these swimmers will be across the English Channel before 2032.
© 2026 Daily News of Open Water Swimming
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