Sheephaven SAC Club Notes:
This year marked another successful Burtonport to Arranmore Island Fin Swim, and what an incredible swim it was! Sheephaven SAC, in collaboration with friends at the Rosses Snorkellers, tackled the nearly 5-kilometre challenge of swimming to Arranmore Island—no ferry required!
This fundraising event is vital in supporting both clubs’ voluntary Search & Recovery services within our community.
After a thorough safety briefing from Hugo McFadden, young Noah McGarvey, representing the McGarvey family from Gortahork, proudly waved the starter’s flag, officially signaling the beginning of the swim.
Support Crew Keeping a Watchful Eye
With fantastic support from five cover boats provided by both clubs, and plenty of cheers from curious ferry passengers, the snorkelers swiftly made their way through the water.
The visibility was excellent, allowing the group to navigate through the channel between Rutland Island, Inishcoo, and Eighter Islands, locally known as the “Black Hole.”
The snorkelers then continued along the Aran Road, where, as with every year, they all arrived at Arranmore Island together.
Arriving on Arannmore
Once they reached Arranmore, the group enjoyed a well-deserved lunch at Early’s Bar and were presented with newly designed t-shirts featuring the Sheephaven and Rosses logos.
Sheephaven SAC T-Shirts
Post-Challenge Lunch at Early’s
A huge thank you goes out to everyone involved: the dedicated snorkelers, the coxswains, boat safety teams, and the continued support from the McGarvey family. The club would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Early family, who always take such great care of us and often stay with us well into the wee hours.
You can still show your support for our voluntary Search & Recovery service by donating via our GoFundMe link below. https://gofund.me/aafbb6fd
