ANNUAL ILFA SWIM

The annual post-Christmas swim at Sandycove, Dublin, is another popular fund-raising event for the ILFA. ILFA’s first fundraising event was the St. Stephen’s Day swim at Sandycove in memory of Fergus Goodbody, in 2002. This event raised over €23,000 and has continued every year since, totalling nearly €70,000 to date.

Dedicated swimmers brave the elements and raise substantial funds for ILFA. It is great to see that so many of the people who swam the first time are still turning up year after year and participating in the annual event. They are a hardy bunch!

The spectators who come along to applaud the courageous swimmers also deserve a mention. Their encouragement, cheers, and admiration all contribute to the special atmosphere.

If you would like to participate in this year's swim at midday on New Year's Day contact ILFA or phone 086 8715264

Chloë Meehan, Dublin
“Every year many hardcore ILFA supporters brave the cold sea at Sandycove - I am one of them (but not so brave or hardcore as I literally dip myself in and out!). I took part in the very first ILFA swim in 2002 and have been doing them ever since. I usually do it with my friend Rosanna and we’re both used to swimming in a nice heated pool. Being the geniuses that we are, we thought of wearing about four pairs of swimming togs so we’d be warmer – surprise, surprise, it didn’t work! After a quick “swim” comes my favourite part – drinking hot chocolate and chatting (dressed in about three jumpers) to the regulars who come down to support ILFA every year. The sense of community is really strong and the generosity of all who sponsor the ILFA crowd is overwhelming – so thank you all very much. All new swimmers are more than welcome and would be greatly appreciated.”