Wave of support for swim challenge

SWIM Ireland has announced details of its inaugural all-Ireland Swim for a Mile Challenge 2014.

The project will challenge members of the public to compete in a national event to swim for a mile.

Swim Ireland will provide a free training programme, support, advice and motivation for all those wanting to take on the challenge.

A mile of swimming is longer than any Olympic pool based race, making it the ultimate test in the sport.

The challenge is being made possible through the Coca-Cola Thank You Fund and the Irish Sports Council’s Women in Sport Programme.

In November 2013, Swim Ireland won the top award in the competition of

?¬25,000 which has helped to make the Swim for a Mile Challenge 2014 a reality.

Supporting swimmers to go the distance, Swim Ireland is offering free training programmes available through the Swim for a Mile website. It is also offering free lane space and coaching at each of the five event locations from the start of the year right up to the event, making the challenge the perfect new year’s fitness resolution for 2014.

With Swim Ireland’s expert support, participants will be able to hone their swimming technique, increase their levels of fitness and improve on a life-long skill – but most importantly be in prime shape to take on the mile challenge when the competition takes place in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Bangor from March 31 to April 4.

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Leo Varadkar said:

“This is a great initiative from Swim Ireland. Everyone should have an opportunity to take part in sport or physical activity, and swimming is one of the best forms of exercise.

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For more information about the event, visit www.swimforamile.com