Gary to swim from Rathlin to Ballycastle for RNLI

AN Aghadowey teacher is to take the plunge by swimming from Rathlin to Ballycastle this weekend to raise funds for the RNLI.
By The Newsroom
Published 30th Aug 2010, 11:14 BST
Updated 30th Aug 2010, 18:11 BST

French teacher Gary Knox (38), who is also a swimming coach at Coleraine Inst, said: “‘The swim is from Rathlin to Ballycastle and is planned for the weekend of 4-5 September.

“ I won't be wearing a wetsuit and the swim is approximately seven miles. Water temperature will be approximately 12 degrees and the challenge isn't so much the distance as the large number of Lions Mane jellyfish which lie between Rathlin and Ballycastle and the very strong and treacherous currents which swirl around the island.”

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Gary went on to explain: “I am doing the swim for RNLI in memory of my friend and training partner, Ciaran McGinn who completed the endurance swim in 2007 and raised funds for his charity, Ballycastle RNLI.

“My training has gone well and I've done a 15K open water swim, Portrush to Portstewart two-way and a swim from Ballycastle to Fairhead in preparation for the event. I've been stung by the jellies and got my body used to the chilly waters.

“The swim to Fairhead last weekend opened my eyes to the strong currents when I made no progress for 90 minutes on the way back to Ballycastle and had to jump out onto road and hitch a lift back into town!

“Hopefully the tides will be kinder to me on day of swim. I'll be accompanied by Portrush kayaker Andrew Bingham who will follow the rib and provide me with an energy drink every hour.

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“In accordance with ILDSA rules, at no time will I be permitted to touch the boat or kayak. Donations can be made online at justgiving.com/gary-knox and there are collection boxes in the shops along the promenade in Ballycastle.

“In the event of bad weather, swim will be rescheduled for mid Sept or October. The swim has a low success rate and is very dependent on conditions and tides on the day.”

Judy Barr, Lifeboat Press Officer said: “This is an amazing feat for anyone to attempt and we are delighted that Gary is raising funds for our volunteer crews and the Station who depends on donations to keep our two boats available for rescues at sea.”